The Oilers have high hopes for one player on a PTO.

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Ryan Hall
September 21, 2023 (8:25)

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It has begun once again; the 107th NHL regular season has opened its doors to all players, general managers, and coaching staff, commencing the process of competing for the Stanley Cup.

Today, all players listed for training camp filtered into their respective buildings and initiated the task of completing their physicals while waiting for their coaching staff on the ice to begin drills and skating.

The Oilers opened their doors today, and since General Manager Ken Holland has reassembled the team, with 20 of the 23 players returning from last year's roster, he dipped into the PTO market and signed Brandon Sutter and Sam Gagner to see if they can continue their careers with the Oilers.

Holland explained his thoughts on Sutter and what he believes he can bring to the team, especially based on his past performance.

"If you're anywhere close to where you were at 28 or 29, you're exactly what we need,"

is the message Sutter received from his general manager, as the expectations are hopeful that this player can regain his form from his earlier years.

The 34-year-old center, drafted in 2007 by the Carolina Hurricanes as the 11th overall pick in the first round, has played 770 games in the NHL. He has scored 152 goals and contributed 137 assists, accumulating a total of 289 points.

The Oilers will be his fourth team in his career after spending time with the Canucks, Penguins, and Hurricanes.