In a stunning move, the Edmonton Oilers have officially signed long-time Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman to a two-year contract worth nearly $17 million. The 34-year-old blueliner, widely considered as one of the greatest defensemen of his time, is leaving the only NHL team he has ever played for, signaling the end of an era in Tampa Bay and the start of a bold new chapter in Edmonton.
Hedman’s decision to leave the Lightning after 16 seasons sent shockwaves around the NHL. Hedman, a previous Norris Trophy winner and main architect of Tampa Bay’s back-to-back Stanley Cup victories in 2020 and 2021, has become synonymous with the team. However, with free agency approaching and the Lightning facing difficult cap considerations, the Swedish veteran opted for a new challenge—and the Oilers pounced.
A game changer for Edmonton.
The Oilers’ acquisition of Hedman is a huge coup. Long chastised for a lack of elite depth on the blue line, Edmonton has suddenly addressed one of its most obvious flaws by signing a defenseman with unrivaled size, experience, and playoff pedigree. The move indicates that the Oilers are fully committed to winning the Stanley Cup—and with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl still in their prime, Hedman’s arrival may be the missing piece.
During a press conference at Rogers Place, General Manager Ken Holland expressed his excitement:
“Victor is a game changer, both on the ice and in the room. His leadership, two-way talent, and championship mindset make him an ideal fit for what we’re creating here in Edmonton.”
Hedman’s Perspective
Hedman, who turns 35 in December, recognized the emotional toll of leaving Tampa Bay but voiced enthusiasm for joining the Oilers.
“Tampa will always be home, but I felt it was time for a new challenge,” he stated. “Edmonton boasts world-class talent, devoted fans, and a will to win. I’m willing to do anything I can to help bring a championship to this city.”
Despite being past his physical prime, Hedman remains incredibly successful. Last season, he had 42 points (7 goals, 35 assists) in 74 games and averaged more than 23 minutes of ice time per night. More significantly, he provides unparalleled postseason expertise, having appeared in over 160 playoff games over his career.
League-wide Reaction
The signing has been welcomed with a combination of astonishment and admiration around the league. NHL observers praised the Oilers for making a calculated, proactive effort to fix their defensive shortcomings while adding seasoned leadership.
Former teammate Steven Stamkos Tweeted,
“It’s difficult to fathom Heddy wearing another jersey, but Edmonton is getting a warrior. Absolute legend.”
Looking ahead.
With Hedman anchoring the top defensive pairing alongside Darnell Nurse or Evan Bouchard, and young goaltender Stuart Skinner still developing, the Oilers appear more balanced than ever. For Edmonton fans, the message is clear: the time to win is now.
As the 2025-26 season approaches, all eyes will be on Alberta, where Victor Hedman—in blue and orange—might be the missing piece in the Oilers’ long-awaited return to Stanley Cup success.