The Edmonton Oilers have signed forward Drake Caggiula to a two-year, two-way deal for an AAV of $775,000. Caggiula played for the Edmonton Oilers for parts three seasons before getting traded to the Chicago Blackhawks.
https://twitter.com/EdmontonOilers/status/1675210468682784768?s=20
It is crazy to think that at one point Caggiula was playing in the Edmonton Oilers top six. Right now the Edmonton Oilers are a much different and deeper team. That is why Caggiula got a two-way deal and not a one-way deal. There is a pretty big chance he won’t even be on the opening night roster.
I think Drake Caggiula is going to play a very similar role to what Devin Shore played last season. He will be the 15th forward on the depth chart. The two-way deal ensures that he will not need to clear waivers when he is recalled or sent down.
This is a good opportunity for Drake Caggiula to restart his NHL career. If there is an injury in the NHL roster he will be the go-to player to come in and fill that spot. He has the ability to play both wing and center which is perfect for the role that he is in.
What Does The Drake Caggiula Signing Mean For The Edmonton Oilers?
This means the Edmonton Oilers will have flexibility on both their AHL and NHL rosters. Having a veteran in the AHL is never a bad thing, plus he does have some skill that will actually help them win games in Bakersfield.
For the Edmonton Oilers, it never hurts to have forward depth. We have seen in years past where there are injuries upfront and the Oilers are scrounging for players to put in. The addition of Drake Caggiula will hinder that from happening.
Overall I don’t think this really a bad move for the Edmonton Oilers, but it really isn’t a good move. It doesn’t move the needle for this team that has Stanley Cup aspirations.