SIGNING ALERT: EDMONTON OILERS INK  TO ONE-YEAR DEAL TO BOOST CENTER DEPTH AND EXPERIENCE…A DEAL WORTH….READ MORE……

In a move designed to add veteran leadership and forward depth, the Edmonton Oilers have officially signed center Ryan Johansen to a one-year contract worth $2.25 million, the team announced Wednesday. The 31-year-old brings size, playmaking ability, and a wealth of playoff experience to an Oilers roster hungry to chase the Stanley Cup in 2025.

Johansen, a former All-Star, spent last season with the Colorado Avalanche, where he recorded 23 points (9 goals, 14 assists) in 63 games. While his offensive numbers have dipped from his peak years with the Nashville Predators, Oilers General Manager Ken Holland believes Johansen still has plenty to offer—especially in a third-line center role.

> “Ryan is a big, smart player who has been through the battles. He brings character, leadership, and experience that we value,” Holland said. “This is a guy who’s played in a Stanley Cup Final and knows what it takes.”

Depth, Size, and Versatility

Standing at 6-foot-3 and 218 pounds, Johansen adds size down the middle, something the Oilers have been lacking behind Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. His faceoff ability (over 55% win rate in the last three seasons) and two-way presence make him an ideal fit for a team that has struggled with secondary scoring and defensive depth.

> “I’m excited for the opportunity,” Johansen said during his introductory media session. “Edmonton is a world-class organization with the best players in the game. I’m here to help in any way I can and chase that Cup.”

A Perfect Fit for the Oilers’ Window

With McDavid and Draisaitl firmly in their prime, the Oilers are all-in on winning now. Johansen’s addition gives head coach Kris Knoblauch more flexibility with line combinations and veteran stability in tight games.

Analysts believe Johansen could center a productive third line, potentially flanked by Dylan Holloway and Warren Foegele or Corey Perry, giving the Oilers one of the most balanced forward groups in the league.

Playoff Pedigree

Johansen has 64 games of playoff experience, including a memorable run to the 2017 Stanley Cup Final with Nashville. He was nearly a point-per-game player in that postseason before an injury sidelined him late in the series.

Now healthy and motivated, Johansen says he feels like he has “unfinished business” in the NHL.

> “To come in and play with guys like Connor and Leon, it’s a privilege,” Johansen added. “Whatever role they ask me to play, I’m ready. This is a team that believes it can win—and I do too.”

Oilers Building for the Run

With this signing, the Oilers have addressed one of their key offseason needs: adding middle-six forward depth and experience. Johansen won’t be expected to carry the offense, but his ability to play responsible minutes, chip in offensively, and mentor younger forwards could prove to be a valuable asset as Edmonton eyes another deep playoff run.

Contract Details:

Player: Ryan Johansen

Team: Edmonton Oilers

Length: 1 year

Value: $2.25 million

Role: Third-line center, veteran leadership

This could be one of those quiet summer signings that ends up making a big difference in April and May.

Stay tuned—more roster moves may be on the horizon in Edmonton.