Oilers sign Minard

Edmonton Oilers seem to be following through on a promise to their AHL team (Springfield) as the signing of quality AHL players got underway this weekend.Minard is a veteran of 35 NHL games (20 last season with the Pens) and 213 in the AHL. He scored 34 goals in the minors last year and has totals of 25 and 32 in previous AHL seasons.Minard isn't likely to make a dent at the NHL level in 09-10, but that could change with a strong training camp, injuries and other factors. He's described as a determined player with offensive ability, with foot speed being the negative.His contract (nhlpa) is $550,000 and although there's no confirmation available that it's a two-way deal that would be the smart bet.