After spending part of last season with the Edmonton Oilers, veteran forward Adam Henrique signed a two-year, $6 million deal to remain with the team. Henrique, who was acquired by the Oilers along with center Sam Carrick from the Anaheim Ducks at the trade deadline, proved to be a valuable asset during Edmonton's run to the Stanley Cup Final.

The Oilers originally acquired Henrique and Carrick from the Anaheim Ducks in a three-team trade. Edmonton sent a 2024 first-round pick and a conditional 2025 fifth-round pick to Anaheim. The Ducks also retained 50% of Henrique's $5.825 million cap hit. The Tampa Bay Lightning were also involved, retaining an additional 25% of Henrique's salary in exchange for a fourth-round pick from Edmonton.

Ken Holland, the Oilers general manager, highlighted the importance of adding depth and versatility to the team with the acquisition of Henrique and Carrick. Both players contribute to penalty killing and can play center, addressing crucial needs for the playoffs.

Henrique's journey to becoming a sought-after trade target involved shaking off a slow start to the season and catching fire with 23 points in 23 games leading up to the trade. At the time of the deal, he ranked third on the Ducks in scoring, with 42 points.

The Oilers are getting a versatile middle-six forward in Henrique, who can provide scoring depth beyond Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. He has the ability to play as a center on a skilled third line or on the second-line wing. Throughout his NHL career, Henrique has been an underrated shooter, and is on pace to reach the 20-goal mark for the seventh time.

Carrick, a right-shot center, brings physicality and penalty-killing abilities to the Oilers' lineup. He has recorded 11 points in 61 games this season and has won 51 percent of his face-offs.