The Edmonton Oilers will be heading into their 2025-26 training camp without extending a professional tryout (PTO) to Klim Kostin, a player who became a fan favorite during his previous stint with the team. This news has been met with disappointment by many Oilers fans, especially after Kostin himself expressed a strong desire to return to Edmonton.

Kostin, a former Oiler, had openly stated his wish to rejoin the team, mentioning in an interview with Russian media that he "wanted to die on the ice for the fans" in Edmonton and that returning to the Oilers was his dream. He played 57 games with the Oilers in the 2022-23 season, scoring 11 goals and 21 points while averaging just over 10 minutes of ice time per game. Kostin also contributed 157 hits and was known for his willingness to engage physically, further endearing him to the Oilers faithful.

Despite the mutual interest and Kostin's expressed love for the city and the team, recent reports indicate that the Oilers are not planning to offer him a PTO. Jim Matheson reported that, as of Friday, there were no indications that the Oilers would be bringing anyone in on a PTO, specifically mentioning that Kostin is not expected to return.

Several factors might have contributed to this decision. The Oilers have a number of forwards competing for roster spots, potentially limiting the opportunities for external players to break into the lineup. The team may also be focusing on other priorities as they aim to improve upon last season.

While Kostin's return to Edmonton would have been a feel-good story and potentially added some grit to the Oilers' bottom-six, the team appears to be heading in a different direction.