Edmonton Oilers bring Zach Kassian back into the organization

Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal was the first to point out the news today that the former tough guy is continuing his career with the Oilers.

Kassian will be replacing Jason Pietrzykowski, who has accepted a role with the Pittsburgh Penguins. Just yesterday, the Oilers let go their previous director of scouting Brad Holland. Clearly, Jeff Jackson and Stan Bowman are making some big changes to the scouting department.

Kassian played seven seasons for the Edmonton Oilers between 2015 and 2022. He became a fan favourite for his physical play with hits and body checks, but was also able to pot a few goals with two 15 goal seasons. He was most memorable during the 2017 playoff run when he was a menace on the ice, delivering thunderous hit after thunderous hit. Fans loved him for his attitude on the ice, but also for the fact that he embraced the city of Edmonton completely.

He was eventually dealt to the Arizona Coyotes in 2022 when the Edmonton Oilers needed to clear salary cap space, and there just wasn't a fit for Kassian anymore. Kassian played just one season with the Coyotes then ventured overseas to play just a handful of games in the Czech Pro League before officially retiring.

It's great to a have a fan favourite and a quality person back with the franchise. Oilers fans will be wishing him well, and hoping he does well evaluating talent for the team.

Source for Kassian Stats: PuckPedia - Zach Kassian