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3 Edmonton Oilers who should not return in 2023

By Almar Reyes

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - MAY 06: Kailer Yamamoto #56 of the Edmonton Oilers takes a shot against Alex Pietrangelo #7 of the Vegas Golden Knights in the third period of Game Two of the Second Round of the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs at T-Mobile Arena on May 06, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Oilers defeated the Golden Knights 5-1. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - MAY 06: Kailer Yamamoto #56 of the Edmonton Oilers takes a shot against Alex Pietrangelo #7 of the Vegas Golden Knights in the third period of Game Two of the Second Round of the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs at T-Mobile Arena on May 06, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Oilers defeated the Golden Knights 5-1. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /
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EDMONTON, CANADA – APRIL 17: Drew Doughty #8 of the Los Angeles Kings battles with Warren Foegele #37 of the Edmonton Oilers in overtime in Game One of the First Round of the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs on April 17, 2023 at Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. (Photo by Lawrence Scott/Getty Images)
EDMONTON, CANADA – APRIL 17: Drew Doughty #8 of the Los Angeles Kings battles with Warren Foegele #37 of the Edmonton Oilers in overtime in Game One of the First Round of the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs on April 17, 2023 at Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. (Photo by Lawrence Scott/Getty Images) /

RW Warren Foegele

One of the challenging aspects for the Edmonton Oilers in terms of roster management is the financial aspect, particularly when it comes to acquiring new players through free agency or trades. With a significant portion of their salary cap already allocated to the top six forwards, the team must find ways to create additional cap space. Unfortunately, this often involves making tough decisions and potentially parting ways with players further down the lineup.

In this case, the spotlight falls on Warren Foegele, who is owed $2.75 million this season. While there may be a desire to retain most of the players in the orange and blue, the financial constraints make it difficult to do so. Balancing the team’s budget and maintaining a competitive roster requires tough choices and prioritization.

The decision regarding Foegele’s future with the team will depend on various factors, including his performance, the team’s overall salary cap situation, and their long-term plans. The front office will need to carefully assess the value Foegele brings to the team and weigh it against the financial implications.

While it is always tough to see players depart, especially those who have contributed to the team, the realities of salary cap management often dictate difficult choices. The Oilers will need to evaluate all options and make decisions that align with their strategic goals and financial capabilities.

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