The Edmonton Oilers have added a veteran presence to their roster, signing forward Curtis Lazar to a one-year contract with an average annual value of $775,000. The announcement, made on Wednesday, July 2nd, 2025, brings Lazar back to Edmonton, where he previously starred for the Western Hockey League's (WHL) Oil Kings.
Lazar, a 30-year-old native of Salmon Arm, British Columbia, brings a wealth of experience to the Oilers. Originally drafted 17th overall by the Ottawa Senators in 2013, Lazar has played 572 career NHL games, recording 47 goals and 78 assists. He has played for the Ottawa Senators, Calgary Flames, Buffalo Sabres, Boston Bruins, Vancouver Canucks, and New Jersey Devils. In the 2024-25 season with the New Jersey Devils, Lazar appeared in 48 games, scoring two goals and assisting on three others.
Beyond his NHL experience, Lazar's return to Edmonton is a homecoming of sorts. From 2010 to 2014, he played for the Edmonton Oil Kings, where he was instrumental in the team's success. During his time with the Oil Kings, Lazar helped the team capture two WHL championships (2012, 2014) and the 2014 Memorial Cup.
Oilers fans will be hoping Lazar can bring some of that championship pedigree to the NHL club. While Lazar isn't known for being an offensive powerhouse, he provides valuable depth and a strong defensive presence. Throughout his NHL career, Lazar has generally been utilized in non-offensive roles. In 572 NHL games, Lazar has recorded 125 points. He has also added a goal and two assists in 30 career playoff games. During the 2014-15 season, Lazar established himself as a strong defensive bottom-six forward with the Ottawa Senators.
Lazar's arrival in Edmonton comes as the Oilers have bid farewell to forwards Corey Perry and Connor Brown. In addition to signing Lazar, the Oilers have also added winger Andrew Mangiapane on a two-year contract. The team also re-signed restricted free agent defenseman Evan Bouchard to a four-year deal. Other recent moves include the signings of Riley Stillman and goaltender Matt Tomkins.
Lazar's one-year contract represents a low-risk move for the Oilers, who are looking to bolster their depth and add a veteran presence to the locker room. His familiarity with the city and his past success with the Oil Kings could make him a valuable asset as the Oilers aim for a deep playoff run.
