Duncan Keith's final NHL season in 2021-22 with the Edmonton Oilers, though brief, offered a unique chapter in a Hall of Fame career. After 16 seasons and three Stanley Cups with the Chicago Blackhawks, Keith was traded to Edmonton in July 2021, a move aimed at bringing veteran leadership and experience to a rising Oilers team.

Trade and Expectations

The trade that sent Keith to Edmonton alongside Tim Söderlund in exchange for Caleb Jones and a conditional third-round pick in 2022 was met with mixed reactions. While Keith's resume spoke for itself, he was approaching 40 and no longer the Norris Trophy-winning defenseman he once was. Some questioned if he could still contribute at a high level, while others saw him as a valuable addition to a team on the cusp of contention. Keith himself requested a trade to Western Canada to be closer to his family in Penticton, British Columbia.

On-Ice Performance

In his lone season with the Oilers, Keith played 64 regular-season games, recording one goal and 20 assists. While his offensive numbers weren't eye-popping, his defensive play and hockey IQ proved valuable. He averaged close to 20 minutes of ice time per game and posted a plus-15 plus/minus rating, demonstrating his ability to contribute positively on the ice. While his underlying analytic numbers weren't outstanding, the Oilers controlled the shot attempt share and goal share when he was on the ice.

Mentorship Role

Beyond the scoresheet, Keith's impact was felt in the dressing room and on the bench. He played a significant role as a mentor to young defenseman Evan Bouchard. The two were paired together for much of the second half of the season, with Bouchard crediting Keith for helping him develop his game. Bouchard noted how Keith consistently offered advice and support, contributing to the growth of the defensive pairing and the team.

Playoff Run

The Oilers finished the 2021-22 season strong, securing second place in the Pacific Division and a spot in the playoffs. Keith played in all 16 of Edmonton's playoff games, averaging nearly 20 minutes of ice time. The Oilers made a deep run, defeating the Los Angeles Kings and Calgary Flames before falling to the Colorado Avalanche in the Western Conference Final. Keith's experience and poise were valuable assets during the playoff run.

Retirement and Legacy

After the season, Keith retired from the NHL, despite having a year remaining on his contract. He cited the physical toll of the game and the desire to spend more time with his family as reasons for his decision. He finished his NHL career with 646 points (106 goals, 540 assists) in 1,256 regular-season games and 91 points (19 goals, 72 assists) in 151 playoff games. Shortly after retiring, the Oilers hired Keith as a player development consultant. In 2025, Keith was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame.

While his time in Edmonton was short, Duncan Keith's final season served as a reminder of his Hall of Fame caliber. He provided valuable leadership and mentorship, helping the Oilers achieve their deepest playoff run in years. Although he is most known for his time with the Chicago Blackhawks, Keith's contribution to the Oilers in his final season should not be overlooked.