When the season came to an end and teams began to decide what they would do regarding their restricted free agents, it seemed the Edmonton Oilers were ready to move on from one of their young forwards. Initially lacking cap space to get all their deals done while also bringing in outside players, the Oilers saw some cap relief with the retirement of Duncan Keith and the trading of Zack Kassian.
It was widely rumored that the Edmonton Oilers and Jesse Puljujarvi were headed towards a mutual separation as Puljujarvi’s asking price from the club was too high, and both felt best that he find other opportunities.
That all changed when NHL insider Elliotte Friedman was the first to report that the two parties have now agreed to terms on an extension to keep the 24-year-old Finnish forward in Edmonton for another season.
Last season Puljujarvi appeared in 65 games and recorded 14 goals and 22 assists for 36 points. His assists and points were both career highs as he continues to grow his offensive game. The Oilers are betting on their young forward as they hope he can continue his growth as he now has posted back-to-back seasons that saw him score 15 goals and 14 goals. If Puljujarvi can reach the 20-goal mark this upcoming season while continuing to be a solid two-way forward, the $3 million will be a steal for Edmonton.
The new contract could mean one of two things as the Oilers is now planning on keeping the winger, or it could make it easier for them to trade him as teams don’t have to worry about an arbitration hearing.
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