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Connor Brown Set to Walk Away From the Edmonton Oilers Following Contract Dispute

Originally posted on House of Hockey | By Tom Banks | Last updated Jun 27, 2025 1:45 PM ET

Connor Brown played a key role for the Oilers this past season, but now, it appears he's set to test the free agency market after a contract dispute with the team.

This past season, the Edmonton Oilers made it to their second straight Stanley Cup Finals, and while they came up short, this team is on the verge of ending Canada's Stanley Cup drought, as well as their own, which dates back to 1990.

While Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl rightfully get the majority of attention for their success, the depth pieces on this team played their role in 2024/25, with a player like Connor Brown bouncing back this season.

After a poor first campaign in Edmonton, the 31-year old veteran had a solid year for the Oilers, tallying 13 goals and 30 points in all 82 games played with the team, with many expecting him to return next season.

Unfortunately, things appear to have changed now, as Sportsnet's Mark Spector is reporting that the veteran is set to test the free agency market come July 1st, and although a comeback to Edmonton hasn't been completely ruled out, he's going to see what his market is.

This past season, Brown had a $1 million deal with the Oilers, and given his production, it's no surprise that he is seeking a pay rise, but given that the team are tight up against the salary cap, it may not be feasible for them to bring him back.

Ultimately, Brown is likely a player the Oilers can replace for cheap on the open market themselves, but given how Brown bounced back in 2024/25, he's got plenty of fans in the organization, so don't be surprised if we do potentially see him back in Edmonton if he doesn't get what he wants on the open market.

This article first appeared on House of Hockey and was syndicated with permission.

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