NHL trade news: Edmonton Oilers sign veteran forward Curtis Lazar to $775K deal in 2024 free agency return

Veteran forward Curtis Lazar is heading back to Edmonton, this time in an NHL jersey. The Oilers have signed the 30-year-old to a one-year, $775,000 contract during the 2024 NHL free agency period, bringing the former WHL standout full circle as he returns to the city where his junior hockey journey first began.The Edmonton Oilers’ decision to bring in Curtis Lazar is more than a feel-good reunion. It’s a calculated depth move ahead of the 2024–25 NHL season. Lazar, originally drafted 17th overall by the Ottawa Senators in 2013, spent five seasons with the Edmonton Oil Kings in the WHL, winning a Memorial Cup and WHL Championship before turning pro.Now, more than a decade later, Lazar brings veteran presence, playoff experience, and two-way versatility to a team looking to maintain its Stanley Cup contention status. Known for his high work ethic and defensive responsibility, Lazar is expected to fill a fourth-line forward role under head coach Kris Knoblauch.The 2023–24 NHL season wasn’t kind to Lazar. Playing for the New Jersey Devils, he battled through injuries and recorded just 2 goals and 3 assists in 48 games. However, the Oilers see upside in his ability to contribute in penalty-killing situations, win board battles, and provide leadership in the locker room.What makes this reunion even more meaningful is the support Lazar is already receiving from the Oilers’ locker room. Connor McDavid, who served under Lazar’s captaincy during the 2015 IIHF World Juniors, was one of the first to welcome him back. Current Oilers Trent Frederic and Vasily Podkolzin also reached out, signaling strong chemistry ahead.Also Read: Edmonton Oilers sign Andrew Mangiapane to $7.2M deal after Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl recruitment pushLazar has played 572 NHL games across seven franchises, including the Flames, Bruins, Sabres, and Canucks. His return to Edmonton offers a fresh opportunity to stabilize his career in a familiar setting. While he’s unlikely to see top-line minutes, his signing adds much-needed depth and flexibility to an Oilers roster that’s looking to build sustainable success in the 2024–25 season.