NHL analyst calls out Oilers' summer signing: 'A burden to everyone'
NHL analyst Josh Cybulski called out Stan Bowman's summer signing of Trent Frederic, saying he has been a burden to everyone he has played with.
NHL free agency is famous for its swing-and-misses, and this summer already throws up one glaring miss. Halfway through the season, it's plain that a few of the signings have not panned out whatsoever, says NHL analyst Josh Cybulski.
The biggest outlier is no doubt Trent Frederic's eight-year, $3.85 million-per-season deal with the Oilers.
What it is about Trent Frederic's contract that raises eyebrows
He came over from the Bruins at last year's trade deadline, and his AAV was steep for what he brings. But it's the length of the deal that really raises eyebrows.
This year, Frederic has just two goals in 28 games and has been a burden on his teammates, according to Cybulski.
"Two months into the contract, it looks like a miss. Frederic has only two goals in 28 games this season and has been a burden to everyone he plays with."
- Josh Cybulski
- Josh Cybulski
The 27-year-old wasn't expected to fully live up to the contract, but he did show scoring ability and other intangibles in Boston.
He's still laying out hits, 68 this season, but he's contributing almost nothing else, a far cry from the 40-point seasons he once posted.
In 51 games with the Oilers, 29 in the regular season, 22 in the playoffs, Frederic has tallied three goals and three assists. That return is a tiny yield, making it hard to justify Edmonton's eight-year commitment.
Why it's possible Trent Frederic snaps out of this funk
Credit where it's due, Frederic played last season with a high ankle sprain, an injury that lingers and can sap performance for months. If that's still lingering, it could help explain some of the struggles.
But for now, Frederic's play is a concern for Edmonton and its fans, and the long-term outlook on this contract looks riskier by the day.
Previously on HockeyLatest
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 9 | 56 ANSWERS NHL analyst calls out Oilers' summer signing: 'A burden to everyone' Was Trent Frederic a bad signing for the Oilers? | ||
| Yes | 49 | 87.5 % |
| No | 7 | 12.5 % |
| List of polls | ||