The Edmonton Oilers and Trent Frederic about to form a long-term business relationship
The Edmonton Oilers are on the cusp of forging a significant long-term business relationship with forward Trent Frederic. As negotiations advance, both sides appear eager to finalize a contract that will bind the player and the franchise together for years to come. This potential agreement not only marks an important step for Frederic’s career but also signals the Oilers’ strategic commitment to strengthening their roster and cultivating a team built for sustained success.
Background on Trent Frederic
Trent Frederic, a 27-year-old forward, was selected 29th overall by the Boston Bruins in the 2016 NHL Draft. Over the past seven seasons, Frederic has evolved into a well-rounded, gritty player recognized for his physicality, work ethic, and versatility on the ice. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches and weighing approximately 220 pounds, he possesses the size and strength that NHL teams covet, especially for playoff hockey where toughness is paramount.
While Frederic’s scoring numbers may not jump off the page, his impact is often felt in other vital areas such as penalty killing, board battles, and delivering punishing hits. His 2024-25 season with the Bruins featured 15 points (8 goals, 7 assists) in 57 games, along with leading the team in hits. These attributes made him an attractive acquisition target for teams looking to add depth and grit to their forward corps.
The Trade That Brought Frederic to Edmonton
In March 2025, the Oilers executed a three-team trade involving the Bruins and the New Jersey Devils to acquire Frederic. The deal sent defenseman Maximus Wanner and valuable draft picks to Boston, while the Devils retained 25% of Frederic’s salary and sent the rights to unsigned forward Shane Lachance to Edmonton.
This trade demonstrated the Oilers’ intent to address their roster needs beyond star power, emphasizing the importance of depth players who contribute to a balanced and physically resilient team. Frederic’s arrival was met with optimism among fans and analysts alike, who recognized his potential fit within Edmonton’s competitive core.
Why a Long-Term Contract?
As Frederic’s contract with the Bruins was nearing expiration, Edmonton moved swiftly to open contract talks, aiming to lock him into a long-term deal. The prospective agreement, reportedly spanning eight years, underscores the Oilers’ confidence in Frederic’s value both on and off the ice.
An extended contract provides stability for both parties. For Frederic, it offers security and a defined role within a team committed to competing at the highest levels. For Edmonton, it guarantees the presence of a player whose style and leadership qualities align with their vision of building a Stanley Cup contender.
Long-term deals of this nature also allow the franchise to manage salary cap considerations more effectively over time, spreading financial commitments and enabling strategic roster construction.
What Frederic Brings to the Oilers
Edmonton’s roster is anchored by offensive superstars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. However, championship aspirations require more than elite skill; they demand players who can handle the physical and defensive demands of playoff hockey.
Frederic offers exactly that. His ability to play both center and wing positions enhances the team’s tactical flexibility. His physicality sets the tone during games, delivering hits that energize teammates and wear down opponents. His defensive awareness and penalty-killing capabilities make him a reliable presence in crucial moments.
Moreover, Frederic’s leadership and work ethic resonate in the locker room, fostering a culture of resilience and accountability that can propel the Oilers during the grind of an NHL season.
The Strategic Vision Behind the Deal
General Manager Stan Bowman has emphasized the importance of building a balanced team capable of navigating the challenges of deep playoff runs. Frederic’s potential long-term contract aligns with this vision, as the Oilers seek to blend skill, speed, and toughness.
By securing Frederic, Edmonton aims to fill vital roster roles that complement their star power. This approach mitigates the risk of relying too heavily on a few players, instead fostering a more sustainable model of success.
Furthermore, locking in Frederic now helps avoid the uncertainties of free agency and potential bidding wars. It signals to other players and agents that the Oilers are serious about assembling a competitive, well-rounded team.
Impact on Team Chemistry and Fanbase
The signing of Frederic is likely to be well-received by the Oilers’ fanbase. His blue-collar playing style embodies the grit and determination that Edmonton supporters admire. Fans appreciate players who sacrifice their bodies, compete hard every shift, and embody team-first attitudes.
From a team chemistry perspective, Frederic’s integration into the Oilers’ system is expected to be seamless. His experience playing alongside talented teammates and under pressure situations prepares him well for the expectations in Edmonton.
Challenges and Expectations
While optimism surrounds Frederic’s impending long-term deal, challenges remain. Injuries, performance fluctuations, and adapting to evolving team dynamics will test both player and franchise.
An eight-year commitment demands consistent effort and growth from Frederic, and patience from the organization and fans during inevitable ups and downs.
The Oilers will also need to continue developing young talent and maintaining salary cap flexibility to complement Frederic and their star players.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for the Oilers’ Future
The anticipated long-term agreement with Trent Frederic represents more than just a contract — it marks a strategic partnership integral to Edmonton’s quest for the Stanley Cup.
By blending Frederic’s physical, two-way play with the offensive firepower of McDavid and Draisaitl, the Oilers are assembling a core capable of sustained success.
This partnership signals Edmonton’s commitment to building a contender not just for the upcoming season but for years to come, fostering continuity and stability.
The Edmonton Oilers and Trent Frederic stand on the threshold of a long-term business relationship that promises to shape the franchise’s competitive landscape for the foreseeable future. Frederic’s arrival and prospective extended contract highlight the team’s strategic focus on depth, grit, and balance alongside star talent.
As negotiations near completion, both parties can look forward to a mutually beneficial partnership defined by growth, resilience, and a shared ambition to reach the pinnacle of NHL success.
For Oilers fans, this development offers hope and excitement for the future, as their team continues to evolve into a true championship contender.
