In the world of hockey, the buzz is all about veteran forward Sam Gagner’s quest to continue his illustrious career for an impressive 18th NHL season. Kurt Leavins of the esteemed Edmonton Journal broke the news and fans are eager to see what the future holds for the seasoned player.
Gagner, who made a comeback last October by signing with the Edmonton Oilers after attending training camp on a professional tryout, has been honing his skills at his annual Muskoka Hockey camp. Leavins emphasized Gagner’s dedication to the game as he prepares for the upcoming season.
Turning 35 on a recent Saturday, Gagner’s experience and leadership have proven invaluable to his teams. In his last season, he showcased his prowess with five goals and 10 points in 28 games with the Oilers. His contributions continued in the AHL with three goals and nine points in 15 games with the Bakersfield Condors.
Despite not hitting the ice during Edmonton’s journey to the Stanley Cup Final, Gagner remains motivated to push his limits and strive for glory in the upcoming season. His commitment to the sport is unwavering, as evidenced by his remarkable career spanning over 1,043 NHL games.
Gagner’s journey with the Oilers has been a rollercoaster of emotions, starting when he was selected sixth overall in the 2007 draft. Throughout his career, he has showcased his talent with 197 goals and 529 points across various teams, including the Arizona Coyotes, Philadelphia Flyers, Columbus Blue Jackets, Vancouver Canucks, Detroit Red Wings, and Winnipeg Jets.
Hailing from London, Ontario, Gagner’s presence on the ice is always felt by fans and teammates alike. His cap hit of $775,000 on a two-way contract last season highlights his value to the team both on and off the ice. As the countdown to the new season begins, all eyes are on Gagner as he gears up for another thrilling chapter in his storied career.