The Top 3 Underpaid Edmonton Oilers Right Now
Zach Hyman- $5.5 Million AAV
Since joining the Oilers, Zach Hyman has established himself as a vital component of the team’s forward group. His current contract, which carries a cap hit of $5.5 million, not only fails to cover the stats he puts up, but also does not fully account for the impact he has on the ice. Hyman’s role extends beyond just putting up points. His ability to drive play, forecheck aggressively, and contribute on both special teams makes him a key asset.
Last season, Hyman had a breakout year, scoring more than 50 goals and tallying a total of 77 points. This remarkable achievement underscores his offensive prowess and consistency. With this being said, his cap hit of $5.5 million is an absolute steal, especially given the rising salaries of top-performing forwards in the NHL. If he were to hit the free-agent market right now, Hyman would be bringing in a significantly higher salary.
One of the critical aspects of Hyman’s value is his versatility. He can play effectively on any line and adapt to various roles as needed. This flexibility is incredibly valuable in a league where injuries are frequent, especially given the way Hyman plays the game. While his $5.5 million salary is not insignificant, it is modest compared to the top-tier forwards who bring a similar level of impact to their teams.
The potential challenge for the Oilers is balancing Hyman’s salary expectations with other financial commitments, particularly as they navigate extensions for key players like Connor McDavid. If Hyman’s demands exceed what the Oilers are prepared to offer, they might face difficult decisions regarding their roster and cap space.
Zach Hyman’s current deal is a steal of a deal for what he contributes to this team and does not fully capture his value in the broader NHL landscape. His scoring over 50 goals last season highlights his exceptional performance and makes a compelling case for a higher salary. As the Oilers look to strengthen their roster and manage their cap space effectively, Hyman’s contract is one positive note, even more so if he can keep producing the way he is now.