Former Edmonton Oil Kings star Curtis Lazar is coming back as the #Oilers have signed the forward to a one-year contract with an average annual value of $775,000.

Former Edmonton Oil Kings Star Curtis Lazar Returns to Edmonton with the Oilers on a One-Year Deal

In a move that has caught the attention of both casual and diehard hockey fans, the Edmonton Oilers have announced the signing of former Edmonton Oil Kings star Curtis Lazar to a one-year contract with an average annual value of $775,000. Lazar, 28, returns to the city where his career began, bringing with him a wealth of NHL experience and a sense of familiarity with the Edmonton community.

Lazar, who was originally drafted by the Oilers in the first round (17th overall) of the 2013 NHL Draft, had spent his formative junior years with the Oil Kings, helping lead the team to success in the WHL. After moving on to the professional ranks, Lazar has built a respectable career as a versatile forward known for his strong two-way play and ability to contribute on both special teams and in key moments. His return to Edmonton marks a full-circle moment in his journey, as he reunites with a city that helped shape his early hockey career.

Lazar’s signing is more than just a reunion story; it represents a calculated move by Oilers management to add depth to their roster as they continue their push for a Stanley Cup. While Lazar may not be the flashiest or most high-profile addition, his steady presence and skillset bring much-needed balance to a team already loaded with offensive firepower. The signing is also a nod to the Oilers’ continued commitment to providing their younger players with the right mix of veterans to help foster growth and stability.

A Familiar Face: Lazar’s History with the Oil Kings

Lazar’s connection to the city of Edmonton dates back to his days in junior hockey. Playing for the Edmonton Oil Kings from 2010 to 2013, Lazar developed into one of the most promising young forwards in the Western Hockey League (WHL). During his time with the Oil Kings, Lazar accumulated 207 points in 224 games, displaying a scoring touch as well as strong leadership qualities.

The highlight of Lazar’s junior career came in 2014 when the Oil Kings captured the WHL Championship, with Lazar playing a key role in their success. His strong two-way play and ability to score timely goals helped propel the Oil Kings to the top of the league, earning him widespread recognition as one of the top prospects available in the 2013 NHL Draft.

“Edmonton has always been a special place for me,” Lazar said in a recent interview after rejoining the Oilers. “Coming back here feels like coming full circle. I grew up watching the Oilers, and now to have the chance to return as a professional player—it’s truly a dream come true. I’ve got a lot of great memories from my time in the WHL, and I’m excited to add to that chapter with the Oilers.”

Lazar’s success with the Oil Kings laid the foundation for his eventual rise to the NHL. He became a well-rounded player known for his leadership, defensive awareness, and ability to play a physical, gritty game. These attributes have served him well in his professional career, and his leadership qualities are likely to benefit the Oilers as they look to strengthen their depth.

NHL Career: A Steady Veteran with Versatility

Since leaving junior hockey, Curtis Lazar has carved out a respectable NHL career, playing for multiple teams over the years, including the Ottawa Senators, Calgary Flames, Buffalo Sabres, and most recently, the Boston Bruins. Lazar has become known for his reliable two-way play, exceptional work ethic, and ability to step up in crucial moments, whether it be killing penalties, providing grit in the bottom six, or stepping in when injuries have depleted a team’s lineup.

Lazar’s best season came with the Boston Bruins during the 2021-2022 season, where he tallied 10 goals and 16 points in 65 games. His contributions went beyond just his offensive stats, as he became a key member of the Bruins’ penalty kill, a unit that was one of the league’s best. His ability to shut down opposing power plays and play a physically demanding game made him a fan favorite in Boston, where he earned a reputation for doing the little things that go unnoticed but are critical to a team’s success.

Throughout his time in the NHL, Lazar has demonstrated that he is a dependable bottom-six forward who can provide energy, defense, and grit, while also chipping in offensively when needed. His ability to be versatile across different roles has made him a valuable asset to every team he has played for, and the Oilers are no exception.

“We’re really excited to bring Curtis back to Edmonton,” said Oilers General Manager Ken Holland. “Curtis is a very well-rounded player who can contribute in a number of areas. He brings a lot of experience to our team, and we believe he’s the kind of player who can help us in both the regular season and the playoffs. His two-way game, leadership, and ability to play in all situations will help strengthen our depth.”

Lazar’s signing also reflects the Oilers’ ongoing effort to build a balanced roster. With elite stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl leading the charge, the team has prioritized adding players who complement their high-octane offensive play with solid defense and special teams contributions. Lazar’s ability to kill penalties, play a responsible defensive game, and chip in on the forecheck makes him an ideal fit for the Oilers’ roster construction.

The Oilers’ Depth Moves: Lazar’s Role in the Lineup

When Lazar takes the ice for the Oilers next season, it’s expected that he will fill a bottom-six role, likely rotating between the third and fourth lines. While Lazar’s offensive production may not be his defining trait, his presence will offer critical depth for the team, particularly in areas where the Oilers are looking to improve—namely their defense and special teams.

On a team that boasts one of the most dynamic and skilled offenses in the league, Lazar’s primary role will likely be to provide a steady defensive presence while also contributing to penalty killing and physicality. He has the ability to step up in key moments, and his experience on the penalty kill will be important for the Oilers, who have consistently ranked near the middle of the pack in terms of their overall special teams performance.

“I’m coming in to do whatever I can to help the team win,” Lazar said. “Whether it’s killing penalties, playing physical, or just bringing energy to the bench, I know my role. I’ve always prided myself on being a guy who does the little things and makes the most of the opportunities given to me. I’m excited to be back and to contribute in any way I can.”

Lazar’s signing could also provide some flexibility for Oilers Head Coach Jay Woodcroft, as it adds another experienced forward to the mix. With a long and grueling season ahead, having a player like Lazar who can slide up and down the lineup, fill in for injuries, and provide leadership in the locker room will be critical as the Oilers continue their quest for a Stanley Cup.

“Adding Curtis to our team adds both depth and experience,” Woodcroft said. “He’s a player who can come in and do whatever is asked of him. Whether that’s playing on a shutdown line or contributing on special teams, we know that Curtis will bring his best every night.”

Lazar’s Return to Edmonton: More than Just Hockey

For Curtis Lazar, coming back to Edmonton represents more than just an opportunity to play for the Oilers—it’s a return to a city that he holds dear. Growing up in the Edmonton area, Lazar has always had a special connection to the community. After spending years as a member of the Oil Kings, playing for the Oilers is a chance to give back to a city that played such a crucial role in his early development.

Lazar has long been known for his philanthropic efforts and commitment to the community. While he is known for his play on the ice, his work off the ice has also earned him admiration. Throughout his career, Lazar has volunteered his time with various charitable organizations and participated in community outreach programs, especially those focused on youth hockey development.

“Edmonton has always been a home for me,” Lazar reflected. “I’ve spent a lot of time here, both growing up and during my junior years, and I’m excited to get involved with the community again. I know how much hockey means to the people here, and I’m looking forward to being part of that connection once more.”

As Curtis Lazar begins this new chapter in his NHL career with the Edmonton Oilers, his path forward seems filled with opportunity. While his role on the team is likely to remain focused on depth and special teams, his leadership, work ethic, and commitment to the game will undoubtedly make him a valuable asset in the locker room and on the ice.

The Oilers have made it clear that they are all-in on building a championship contender, and Lazar’s signing is another small but important piece in that puzzle. With elite talent in McDavid, Draisaitl, and others, Lazar’s steady hand and experience will help balance the roster and contribute to the team’s overall depth.

For Lazar, this return to Edmonton is a chance to continue his NHL journey while fulfilling a personal dream of playing for the Oilers. As he joins the team for training camp and prepares for the upcoming season, the hope is that his contributions will help the Oilers take the next step in their quest for a Stanley Cup. Whether on the penalty kill, in the faceoff circle, or providing leadership from the bench, Lazar will be doing what he does best: giving his all to help the Oilers achieve their ultimate goal.

With a one-year contract now inked, Curtis Lazar’s story in Edmonton is just beginning—one that bridges the gap between the city that raised him and the NHL team he will now call home.