The Edmonton Oilers' long-term commitment to forward Trent Frederic has become a flashpoint for fan debate, with questions already swirling about a potential buyout in 2026 despite the ink being barely dry on his contract.
Fan Fury Over Frederic's Eight-Year Pact
Acquired at the 2026 trade deadline in a three-way deal, Frederic was promptly signed by the Oilers to an eight-year contract in June worth $3.85 million annually. The initial fan reaction focused less on the annual salary and more on the staggering length of the deal, especially given Frederic's limited impact since arriving in Edmonton.
According to reports, Frederic contributed little during the playoff stretch and post-season, a fact later attributed to a pre-existing high-ankle sprain the team was aware of prior to the trade. The Oilers had sought his toughness and playoff experience, but the return has been minimal so far in the 2026-27 season.
A Costly Start and Buyout Speculation
Halfway through the current schedule, Frederic's on-ice production has been meager. He is tied for 17th in team scoring with just two goals and one assist, accompanied by a minus-10 rating and 32 penalty minutes. His 0.8 points per game is among the lowest on the roster.
This has led to pointed criticism from segments of the fanbase, with some already inquiring about the NHL's buyout window. A hypothetical buyout, as illustrated by sites like puckpedia.com, could have long-term financial ramifications for the Oilers, potentially seeing them carry cap charges related to Frederic's deal as far out as the year 2040.
The situation creates a stark contrast. While management may celebrate creating a culture where Connor McDavid took a team-friendly discount to aid the roster, the Frederic contract is viewed by critics as a misallocation of those very savings.
Broader Context: A Team of Contradictions
The debate over Frederic unfolds against a paradoxical backdrop for the Oilers. The team sits first in the Pacific Division with a 7-3-0 record in its last 10 games and boasts the league's two best centres in McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Yet, frustration simmers beneath the surface.
Critics point to inconsistent play, including a failure to win three consecutive games this season, a perceived lack of depth beyond the top five forwards, and ongoing questions in goal since the trade of Stuart Skinner. The team's sluggish start to the season had them fighting for a wild-card spot until McDavid's dominant performance throughout December propelled them up the standings.
This tension between elite standing and palpable fan discontent defines the current Oilers narrative, with the Trent Frederic contract serving as a prime symbol of the front office decisions now under intense scrutiny.
