Edmonton Oilers forward Trent Frederic has landed on Dom Luszczyszyn’s list of the NHL‘s worst contracts. In his latest column for The Athletic, Luszczyszyn ranked Frederic’s eight-year, $30.8 million extension as the league’s sixth-worst deal after a disappointing first year.
Frederic signed the extension in June 2025, carrying a $3.85 million annual cap hit. Edmonton expected the former Boston Bruins forward to become a dependable middle-six contributor. Instead, his production dropped sharply during the 2025-26 campaign.
MORE: David Staples says Oilers need Evander Kane to neutralize NHL ‘apex predators’
Luszczyszyn questioned whether the contract still makes sense in a rising salary cap environment. “Frederic had just seven points in 74 games last season and was a real drag at five-on-five,” he wrote. He added, “His contract now feels like a complete anchor where he’s being paid nearly $4 million to be basically replacement level.”
Frederic finished the regular season with four goals, seven points and a minus-15 rating. He also went scoreless in four playoff games before becoming a healthy scratch. Edmonton exited in the first round after losing its series to the Anaheim Ducks in six games.
Oilers still hope Trent Frederic can justify long-term investment
Edmonton Oilers center Trent Frederic (10) warms up before a game at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images
Luszczyszyn acknowledged Edmonton’s original thinking behind the deal. “The hope was Frederic would return to that level when healthy; instead, Edmonton saw him drop further toward the abyss,” he wrote.
The analyst believes there is still a path forward, although optimism remains limited. “A new coach and more opportunity could get Frederic back on track, but for now that’s a tough sell,” Luszczyszyn wrote.
He also pointed to a broader lesson for NHL front offices. “Don’t give extreme term to depth players — especially if it doesn’t come with any notable AAV discount,” he concluded.
Frederic arrived in Edmonton through a three-team trade last year, and has built his reputation as a physical, versatile bottom-six forward capable of playing center or wing. However, he has struggled after receiving opportunities on a roster featuring Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
The criticism reflects performance rather than contract value alone. Edmonton’s management committed eight years based on Frederic’s previous middle-six potential. The Oilers have since reshaped their roster and hired Mike Babcock after their playoff disappointment.
MORE: Ryan Whitney says Oilers’ Connor McDavid deserves $23 million a year
If Frederic rebounds, the contract may become more manageable. If last season becomes the norm, Luszczyszyn’s “complete anchor” label will only gain more support.