OILERS BOLSTER THEIR BLUELINE

The Edmonton Oilers have agreed to terms with unrestricted free agent Sheldon Souray on a five-year deal, securing the heavily coveted defenceman’s services through the 2011-12 season.

The 6’4” native of Elk Point, Alberta joins the Oilers after spending the past six seasons with the Montreal Canadiens. Last season, Souray led the Canadiens in power-play goals with 19 and penalty minutes with 135, while ranking second in goals (26) and points (64). His 26 goals led all NHL defencemen, six ahead of second ranked Dan Boyle of the Tampa Bay Lightning. He also led all NHL defencemen (tied with Vancouver’s Sami Salo) with six game-winning goals.

Oilers General Manager Kevin Lowe says, “With the addition of Sheldon, we solidify our defence in a big way and also answer some of the issues regarding scoring and toughness. Sheldon’s game has consistently improved and we’re going to rely on him in many different situations.”

Originally drafted by the New Jersey Devils in the 1994 NHL Entry Draft (3rd round, 71st overall), Souray has compiled 186 points (66-120-186) including 821 penalty minutes in 506 career NHL games. In 34 career playoff games, Souray has recorded 10 points (3-7-10) with 65 penalty minutes.

“I’m heading home to Alberta and I can’t wait to step onto the ice at Rexall Place”, said Souray. “It’s always been a terrific building to play in. I couldn’t be happier with my decision and I can tell you it was an easy one to make. I’m looking forward to playing in Edmonton for a great organization and believe me, I know how good the fans in Edmonton are.”

The 30-year-old will celebrate his 31st birthday tomorrow, July 13th.

It's nice to see that Kevin Lowe was able to convince someone to come to Edmonton.
So I have to ask you, NHLOilersfan, are you a big Michael Nylander fan?

Thank God he's in Washington. I couldn't understand why Edmonton was after him. Good luck in D.C.

NHLOilersfan wrote:

Thank God he's in Washington. I couldn't understand why Edmonton was after him. Good luck in D.C.

Do you think that Jagr was making him look good?

I am sure he's a decent player, but looking at Jagr and looking at Hemsky I see him as more of a scoring threat in New York than in Edmonton. I know Hemsky and Jagr aren't on the same page, but they are the two teams best play makers so that's the basis for my comparison. Edmonton needs scoring more than anything with the loss of Smyth, and with some of the additions so far, that need has been addressed. Nylander would have been another 17/18 goal guy, like Lupul was and Hemsky, and Stoll, and Torres and Horcoff and you get the point.

What a big pick up for the Oilers. They need to make a few big pick-ups to get them back in the Cup race.

Did Dustin Penner finally sign the Oilers offer sheet offering 5 years yet or is Anaheim going to match it?

Yes, he is now Oilers Property. All I have to say is WHAT THE HOLY FUCK is Kevin Lowe thinking? We basically traded Penner for a first, second, and third round pick. He's not that good. Hopefully I am wrong, but I doubt it.

NHLOilersfan wrote:

Yes, he is now Oilers Property. All I have to say is WHAT THE HOLY FUCK is Kevin Lowe thinking? We basically traded Penner for a first, second, and third round pick. He's not that good. Hopefully I am wrong, but I doubt it.

NO SHIT!!! They should have put that $ into signing Ryan Smyth last year before he got away.

Mike Floorsinger wrote:

NHLOilersfan wrote: Yes, he is now Oilers Property. All I have to say is WHAT THE HOLY FUCK is Kevin Lowe thinking? We basically traded Penner for a first, second, and third round pick. He's not that good. Hopefully I am wrong, but I doubt it. NO SHIT!!! They should have put that $ into signing Ryan Smyth last year before he got away.

ya if the oilers would signed smyth before he got away the oiulers would have done a lot better lasy season

Mike Floorsinger wrote:

NHLOilersfan wrote: Yes, he is now Oilers Property. All I have to say is WHAT THE HOLY FUCK is Kevin Lowe thinking? We basically traded Penner for a first, second, and third round pick. He's not that good. Hopefully I am wrong, but I doubt it. NO SHIT!!! They should have put that $ into signing Ryan Smyth last year before he got away.

ya if the oilers would signed smyth before he got away the oiulers would have done a lot better lasy season