Duncan Keith's tenure with the Edmonton Oilers was brief, lasting only a single season, but it was a significant chapter in the twilight of a Hall of Fame career. Acquired in a trade from the Chicago Blackhawks in July 2021, Keith aimed to provide veteran leadership and Stanley Cup-winning experience to a team on the rise. While his on-ice performance might not have mirrored his peak years, his impact on the Oilers, particularly on the development of young players, was undeniable.
The trade that brought Keith to Edmonton was met with mixed reactions. The Oilers sent Caleb Jones and a conditional third-round pick to Chicago in exchange for Keith and Tim Soderlund. Many questioned the move, particularly the decision to take on Keith's full $5.5 million cap hit without the Blackhawks retaining any salary. Critics pointed to Keith's declining underlying numbers in Chicago, suggesting he was no longer the elite defenseman he once was. However, Oilers General Manager Ken Holland valued Keith's experience and leadership, believing he could contribute to a team seeking its first Stanley Cup in decades. Keith himself expressed excitement about joining the Oilers, citing the opportunity to be closer to his son and the chance to win another championship.
On the ice, Keith played a significant role for the Oilers during the 2021-22 season. He appeared in 64 regular-season games, recording one goal and 20 assists. While his offensive output was modest, his defensive play and ability to log important minutes were valuable to the team. Keith averaged nearly 20 minutes of ice time per game and was a calming presence on the blue line. One of the most notable aspects of Keith's time in Edmonton was his mentorship of young defenseman Evan Bouchard. The two were paired together for a significant portion of the season, and Bouchard spoke glowingly about the lessons he learned from the veteran. Keith emphasized the importance of simplifying the game and trusting his partner, helping Bouchard develop into a more confident and effective player.
Keith's impact extended beyond the regular season. In the playoffs, he played in all 16 of Edmonton's games, contributing one goal and four assists. He averaged 19:40 of ice time and provided valuable experience as the Oilers made a run to the Western Conference Finals. Although they ultimately fell short of their Stanley Cup aspirations, Keith's presence was a steadying force during a high-pressure playoff run. Teammates noted his calming influence in the dressing room, particularly during challenging moments.
Following the season, Keith faced a decision about his future. After 17 seasons in the NHL, he was contemplating retirement. In July 2022, he officially announced his retirement, citing the physical toll of the game and the desire to spend more time with his family. His departure created significant salary cap relief for the Oilers, giving them flexibility to pursue other player acquisitions. Keith described his time in Edmonton as a "near-perfect last chapter," expressing gratitude to the organization for giving him the opportunity to contribute.
While Duncan Keith's final season with the Edmonton Oilers was relatively short, it was a memorable one. He brought a wealth of experience, leadership, and a winning pedigree to a team on the cusp of contention. His influence on young players like Evan Bouchard will have a lasting impact on the Oilers organization. Though he didn't hoist another Stanley Cup in Edmonton, his contributions were appreciated, and his presence will be fondly remembered by Oilers fans.
