The #Oilers sign defenceman Alec Regula to a two-year, two-way extension after claiming the 24-year-old off waivers in December.

In a move that reflects the Edmonton Oilers’ commitment to building depth across their lineup, the team has signed 24-year-old defenceman Alec Regula to a two-year, two-way contract extension. Regula, who was claimed off waivers from the Boston Bruins in December 2024, had his NHL prospects clouded by injury but now finds himself with a new opportunity to prove himself in Edmonton. This extension offers an intriguing look into the Oilers’ broader strategy for long-term success, particularly in strengthening their defensive corps.

The decision to extend Regula comes after a relatively short tenure with the team, but it underscores Edmonton’s belief in the player’s potential to contribute as part of the team’s depth, particularly on the blue line. With a young, skillful defensive prospect like Regula in the fold, the Oilers appear committed to balancing their offensive firepower with a more stable and dynamic defensive group capable of supporting their high-flying attack.

This article will explore Regula’s journey to Edmonton, why the Oilers decided to extend him, the terms of his contract, and the potential impact of this decision on the team’s defensive makeup.

Alec Regula’s Journey to the NHL

Before becoming a key figure in the Oilers’ plans, Alec Regula’s path to the NHL was built through perseverance and steady development. Originally drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the third round (67th overall) of the 2018 NHL Draft, Regula began his professional career in the AHL. He spent several seasons with the Grand Rapids Griffins, where he showcased his potential as an offensive-minded defenceman. His size, standing 6’4″ and weighing 218 pounds, made him a physical presence on the ice, but it was his vision and skating ability that really caught the eye of scouts.

In the 2023-24 season, Regula played for the Providence Bruins, the AHL affiliate of the Boston Bruins. He registered four goals and 26 points in 55 games, demonstrating his ability to move the puck and contribute offensively from the blue line. Despite his solid performance in the minors, Regula’s prospects in the NHL were somewhat unclear, as his development had been slowed by injuries. Still, his combination of size, skill, and potential as a two-way defenceman made him an intriguing option for any NHL team looking to bolster their blue-line depth.

In December 2024, Regula was placed on waivers by the Boston Bruins, a team that already had an established defensive core. The Edmonton Oilers quickly claimed Regula, recognizing the value in acquiring a young defenceman with upside. At the time of the waiver claim, Regula was recovering from knee surgery, but the Oilers saw the potential in him once he was healthy and could fully contribute. The waiver claim was a low-risk move for Edmonton, giving them a chance to develop a promising player without committing significant financial resources.

The Terms of the Contract Extension

Regula’s two-year, two-way contract extension is an important development for both the player and the Oilers. The two-way nature of the contract means that Regula will earn a higher salary if he plays in the NHL and a lower salary if he is assigned to the AHL. This is standard for depth players, as it provides the team with financial flexibility while also ensuring the player is fairly compensated for his contributions at both levels.

For Regula, this extension is a critical opportunity. He has proven himself capable of making an impact at the AHL level, but the Oilers’ extension signals that they see significant potential for him to play a role at the NHL level in the coming seasons. The contract offers Regula stability while allowing him time to continue developing his game, particularly his defensive skills, under the Oilers’ coaching staff.

The two-year length of the contract is significant as it gives both Regula and the Oilers a clear timeline to assess his development. Should Regula perform well in the AHL and earn a call-up to the NHL, the extension ensures that the Oilers can retain him for two seasons. If he struggles to make the jump to the NHL, the two-way nature of the deal allows the team to send him down to the AHL without major financial ramifications.

From the Oilers’ perspective, this contract extension is an opportunity to build out their defensive depth without tying up significant cap space. Regula, while not guaranteed an immediate spot in the NHL lineup, is a player who can grow into a reliable contributor. As the Oilers continue to compete for a Stanley Cup, adding young, versatile players like Regula to their roster is essential for long-term success.

Why the Oilers Extended Alec Regula

The Edmonton Oilers’ decision to sign Regula to a two-year, two-way extension is rooted in the team’s need for defensive depth and the potential they see in the young defenceman. While the Oilers have long been known for their offensive firepower, the team has struggled with defensive consistency over the years. Edmonton’s defensive corps has often been a point of criticism, particularly in high-pressure playoff situations.

As the Oilers push to make deeper playoff runs and ultimately compete for a Stanley Cup, strengthening their defensive depth has become a priority. By securing a player like Regula, the Oilers can maintain a flexible, cost-effective approach to their defensive lineup. Regula is a player who provides both size and offensive upside, two qualities that are increasingly valued in today’s NHL.

Regula’s physical presence, combined with his ability to move the puck efficiently, make him a valuable asset for the Oilers as they look to balance their roster. In addition to being a solid defender, Regula is capable of contributing offensively, which fits well with the Oilers’ system that encourages defensemen to join the rush and support their potent offensive stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.

Another factor in the Oilers’ decision to extend Regula is the uncertainty that often comes with managing salary cap space. By signing Regula to a two-way contract, the Oilers are able to manage their cap hit more effectively. If Regula spends significant time in the AHL, the financial impact on the team will be minimal. However, if he earns an NHL spot, the contract gives the Oilers the flexibility to fit him into their cap structure without making major sacrifices in other areas of the roster.

Regula’s Potential Impact on the Oilers’ Defensive Corps

The Oilers have one of the most potent offensive lineups in the NHL, but their defensive corps has been a more questionable component of their roster. While they have some solid players on defense, the team has lacked a consistent, well-rounded blue line capable of providing stability in critical moments. This is where a player like Regula comes in.

Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 218 pounds, Regula is a physical presence who can compete with the league’s toughest players. His ability to clear the crease, protect the puck, and battle along the boards gives the Oilers a much-needed boost in physicality. At the same time, his skating and puck-moving ability make him an intriguing option for the Oilers’ transition game.

While Regula is still a work in progress defensively, his offensive upside—showcased by his 26 points in the 2023-24 AHL season—provides the Oilers with a player who can add value both on the power play and at even strength. Regula’s development into a reliable NHL defenseman will take time, but he certainly has the tools to contribute to the Oilers’ efforts to build a more balanced roster.

Looking Ahead: Regula’s Development and Future Role with the Oilers

As Regula settles into his new contract, the next few seasons will be important for his development. The Oilers’ coaching staff will have an opportunity to work closely with him, refining his defensive skills and helping him adjust to the speed and intensity of the NHL. Regula’s future with the team depends on his ability to adapt and grow as a player, particularly in terms of his defensive consistency.

Given the Oilers’ overall depth at forward and their need for a more robust defensive unit, Regula will need to prove that he can hold his own in the NHL and offer meaningful contributions. With a two-year extension, the Oilers have time to assess his progress without rushing him into a full-time role. If Regula impresses in the AHL, he could find himself earning more opportunities with the NHL club as the Oilers continue to fight for playoff success.

The Edmonton Oilers’ decision to sign Alec Regula to a two-year, two-way contract extension marks an important step in the team’s strategy to strengthen its defensive depth. Regula, a physical, offensive-minded defenceman, adds value to the team’s back end while maintaining financial flexibility. His potential to contribute offensively and defensively aligns well with the Oilers’ broader goals of building a championship-contending roster.

For Regula, this extension offers a chance to further develop his game and prove that he can play a significant role at the NHL level. With the Oilers’ coaching staff behind him, Regula’s future looks promising, and his growth will be crucial to the team’s continued success.

As the Oilers prepare for another season, Regula’s development will be one of the key storylines to watch. Whether he plays a role on the NHL roster or continues to grow in the AHL, his potential to become a reliable NHL defenseman makes him an exciting piece of the Oilers’ long-term plans. This contract extension may well be the first step in a fruitful career with the Oilers, as they continue to build a more complete and competitive team for the future.