Adam Henrique declined more money from rival Canadian team to stay with Oilers
Adam Henrique wasn't the biggest name available at last year's trade deadline, but he became a perfect fit for the Oilers lineup in the playoffs. Now, it's been revealed he took a discount to stay with the team.
There were plenty of reports at the beginning of free agency that Henrique could command more money than the Oilers could afford in free agency. According to a new report from Kurt Leavins in the Edmonton Journal, Henrique was offered $1M more in total from the Winnipeg Jets, but declined for a lesser offer with the Oilers.
»A contact of mine in Winnipeg who has knowledge of the conversations says that Adam Henrique turned down a 2-year, $3.5m contract from the Winnipeg Jets at free agency this summer. Instead, he opted for the Oilers on a 2-year, $3m deal to stay in Edmonton.»
- Kurt Leavins
- Kurt Leavins
It's incredible to hear a proven veteran player taking a lesser deal to play and contend for a Stanley Cup with the Oilers, and it's part of a trend including Jeff Skinner and Zach Hyman that's making Edmonton a destination to play for in the NHL. Taking a discount is significant for icing a more complete roster, especially when more players buy in to that mentality. That's also a clear reason why the Oilers had no choice but to let Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway walk after signing offer sheets.
The 34 year old Henrique will likely reprise his role as a floater in the lineup with the Oilers next year. Through 39 regular season and playoff games, Henrique was able to ride along the top line with McDavid and Hyman, play wing alongside Leon Draisaitl, or center a defensive third line. His versatility will be a major asset for the Oilers to have throughout an entire season.
Hearing Henrique turned down a rival team in the Winnipeg Jets makes it even more sweet to have him back on a discount. Oilers fans should be thrilled for what he can bring next year.
Source for Stats and Salaries: PuckPedia - Adam Henrique
| POLL | ||
Do you think Henrique will play top six minutes again this year? | ||
| Yes, he'll float around the lineup | 155 | 77.9 % |
| No, he'll be a bottom six player now | 41 | 20.6 % |
| See Results | 3 | 1.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
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