Oilers Make Unexpected Signing of Defenceman to NHL Contract Extension Fans are Split on the Decision
The Edmonton Oilers have made a surprising choice regarding their team, and it’s already causing a debate among fans. At first glance, the one-year NHL contract extension for defenceman Atro Leppanen seems like a simple and harmless decision. But if you take a closer look, this signing raises important questions about the Oilers’ long-term plan for their defense.
Leppanen has an interesting background. Just a few years back, the 27-year-old player from Finland was working in a factory and not part of any NHL talks. Then in April 2025, the Oilers picked him from the Finnish Elite League, and now he has a contract with the NHL that lasts until the 2026–27 season. It’s an incredible journey, but is this smart team-building or just a risky move?
This is where opinions start to differ.
This extension has a chance for an NHL call-up, which shows that the management thinks Leppanen could actually make it to the main team. However, some fans are questioning why the Oilers are putting resources into an older, untested defenceman rather than focusing on younger talents or reliable players with NHL experience. At 27, Leppanen is not exactly a long-term project, and we still don’t know how he will adjust from European hockey to playing in North America.
Fans supporting the move say this is a safe bet with the possibility of a big payoff. With a low salary likely at league minimum and a contract that allows flexibility, Edmonton is getting a motivated player who wants to prove himself—just the kind of underdog story that fans enjoy. On the other hand, critics view this as another instance of the Oilers experimenting instead of addressing clear issues in their defense.
No matter if Leppanen turns out to be a great player or not, it’s clear this signing is more important than it seems. If he gets to play NHL games, the Oilers’ management will look very smart. If not, it might raise more worries about how well Edmonton scouts and values their defensive players.
In any case, everyone will be watching Atro Leppanen—and the pressure is high.
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