Well the Edmonton Oilers have welcomed a trade deadline acquisition back with open arms. As Adam Henrique re-signs with the club, it really shows a commitment by the Oilers to bring back a huge part of the team that made the Stanley Cup. The Oilers GM was determined to build the depth of the club after some of the top-end guys, names like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Adam Henrique is the perfect example of unselfishness and helping round out the Oilers middle six forwards. He signs a two-year deal worth $6 million, or $3 million AAV.
Henrique returns to Edmonton on two year deal at $3 mil per. He was offered more by other clubs. Edmonton circled back and closed.
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) July 2, 2024
Adam Henrique Re-Signs With the Edmonton Oilers
With the Edmonton Oilers playoff success in 2023-24, rewarding the pieces that got them there was crucial. Despite some injury problems popping up in the playoffs, Henrique brings tremendous value to his club, shown in the contract he signed.
What Does His Signing Mean for His Club
In the regular season, the 34-year-old actually tied his career-high point total. And it was from his rookie season. In 2023-24, split between the Oilers and the Anaheim Ducks, Henrique scored 24 goals and had 27 assists for 51 points. Even though there was a dip as a member of the Oilers, his average ice time for the season was 16:51. Even with that production, Henrique was utilized in more so a defensive role. In 2023-24, his dSZ% was nearly 56%. Therefore, for a top-loaded, offensive roster like the Oilers, his value can be extremely underrated. Not to mention the veteran leadership he can provide at this point in his career.
He’s never had a lot of playoff experience, in fact, the 2024 playoff run was only his third playoff appearance of his career. However, he has been productive. In 2011-12, when the Devils made a run to the Stanley Cup finals, Henrique’s contributions were very much appreciated. He had 13 points in 24 games as a 21-year-old. It’s not hard to see how much he can provide to a prospective playoff team. Therefore, as Adam Henrique re-signs with the Oilers, it makes a lot of sense to both side.
Main photo credit: Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports
