Oilers Eyeing Veteran Centre Jason Dickinson for Re-signing
Team insider Bob Stauffer suggests Edmonton is serious about bringing back the 31-year-old checking centre.
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The Edmonton Oilers have their eyes on re-signing veteran checking centre Jason Dickinson, according to team insider Bob Stauffer.
Dickinson, who will be 31 in a few weeks, was injured badly in the playoffs this season. Stauffer suggested on Oilers Now that there's a serious organizational effort in this direction, and a new contract might already be close to finalized.
In May, Stauffer speculated on what a new deal might cost, suggesting Dickinson could land $3.75 to $4.25 million per year on a four-year contract. At $4.25 million annually over four years, the deal would benefit both sides — Dickinson would be a valuable third-line checking centre for at least two more seasons, though the final two years become riskier when he's 33 and 34.
Dickinson's even-strength scoring last season was weak at just 1.01 per 60 minutes of 5-on-5 play — fourth-line level. His strength lies in hitting rates and physical, smart checking. The key question is whether he can act as an efficient checker in a third-line role and on the top penalty kill.
The Oilers also have young centre Josh Samanski, who some view as an equally capable option. Either way, strong depth at centre benefits the team.