Curtis Lazar has officially returned to Edmonton after signing a one-year contract with the Oilers, marking a significant moment for the veteran forward ahead of the 2025-26 <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/hockey/nhl/”>NHL season. The move not only reunites Lazar with the city where he gained valuable experience during his WHL career but also reconnects him with key teammates, including Connor McDavid, who has offered a warm reception as Lazar adjusts to his new team.
The Warm Reunion Between Lazar and McDavid
Lazar’s arrival in Edmonton has been met with support from the Oilers’ roster, emphasizing the importance of team chemistry in a competitive sports environment. On July 3, Jason Gregor, co-host of the Daily Faceoff podcast, highlighted on social media how the team’s leadership is actively making Lazar feel welcomed. Notably, Connor McDavid, who once served as an alternate captain under Lazar’s captaincy during the 2015 IIHF World Juniors, was among the first to reach out to him.
Speaking about the reconnection, Lazar said,
“He reached out to me right away. We were roommates at the World Juniors so it was nice to reconnect. I also played with Trent Frederic and Podkolzin and both reached out. Pods’ was in English/Russian and I think he said he was happy I signed (laughs),”
—Curtis Lazar, as quoted by Jason Gregor.
This friendly network among players reflects not only past bonds but also the positive team culture that the Oilers are maintaining as they build for the upcoming season.
Curtis Lazar’s Career Journey Before Returning to Edmonton
Before rejoining the Oilers, Curtis Lazar spent five influential seasons with the Edmonton Oil Kings in the WHL, winning both a WHL Championship and the Memorial Cup between 2010 and 2014. His promising junior career led to him being drafted 17th overall by the Ottawa Senators in 2013. Since then, Lazar has accumulated experience across multiple NHL teams, including the Calgary Flames, Buffalo Sabres, Boston Bruins, Vancouver Canucks, and most recently, the New Jersey Devils.
Throughout 572 regular-season games, Lazar recorded 47 goals and 78 assists, but the 2024-25 season was challenging, as he only scored two goals and three assists in 48 games while battling injuries. Despite these setbacks, Lazar’s new contract with the Oilers, valued at $775,000 annually, presents an opportunity for him to regain momentum. Although typically playing on the lower lines, head coach Kris Knoblauch may utilize Lazar’s versatility, most likely slotting him on the fourth line.
How the Oilers Are Strengthening Their Roster Around Lazar
The Edmonton Oilers have been active in free agency since its opening on Canada Day, demonstrating their commitment to improving the team after falling short in the Stanley Cup Finals against the Florida Panthers. General Manager Stan Bowman has focused on reinforcing key positions to elevate the team’s chances for the coming season.
Alongside Lazar, the Oilers secured winger Andrew Mangiapane, a seasoned player with experience on both Calgary and Washington rosters, signing him to a two-year deal worth $7.6 million. Mangiapane expressed enthusiasm about the team fit, stating,
“I think this was just a great fit for me…I just want to come here and play my game and just kind of help the team whatever way possible to win,”
—Andrew Mangiapane.
The moves come as the Oilers fill offensive gaps left by the departures of Corey Perry and Connor Brown, addressing critical holes in their lineup to ensure balanced scoring threats and depth.
Re-signing Key Players and Uncertainty Around McDavid’s Future
In addition to acquiring new talent, the Oilers have secured defenseman Evan Bouchard with a four-year, $42 million contract extension, locking in a core player on their blue line. Despite these positive squad changes, a looming question remains regarding the future of Connor McDavid, the team’s centerpiece and leading star.
General Manager Stan Bowman recently disclosed that discussions about McDavid’s contract status have yet to start, leaving fans and analysts anxious over the star’s commitment beyond the upcoming season. This unresolved matter adds a layer of tension to the Oilers’ offseason as they prepare for next year’s challenges without certainty about their captain’s long-term presence.
Potential Outcomes for Curtis Lazar with the Edmonton Oilers
As Lazar integrates into the Oilers lineup, the chance to play alongside or learn directly from Connor McDavid presents a promising environment, provided McDavid remains with the team. Even if that scenario does not fully materialize, Lazar’s familiarity with the city and connections to teammates create a supportive atmosphere for a possible career rejuvenation.
With a history of leadership and versatility, Lazar’s role—likely on the fourth line—could be pivotal in providing depth and experience. The 30-year-old forward’s success will depend on how well he recaptures his form and adapts to coach Kris Knoblauch’s system amid the Oilers’ efforts to rebound from recent disappointments.
The coming months will reveal whether Curtis Lazar’s return to Edmonton sparks new vigor in his career or confirms concerns about his prime being behind him. Meanwhile, the Oilers’ approach to managing their star players and strengthening the roster will be critical as the team aims for a competitive 2025-26 season.