Brandon Saad signs contract with Oilers rival after being connected to Edmonton

Brandon Saad was heavily connected to signing with the Edmonton Oilers since he became a free agent just a few days ago.

Brandon Saad signs with Vegas Golden Knights after being connected to Edmonton Oilers

Now 32 years old, Saad has played 906 career games with the Chicago Blackhawks, Columbus Blue Jackets and St. Louis Blues. He pursued mutual contract termination instead of being sent to the AHL, leaving millions on the table to sign a one-year deal to prove himself in Vegas.

In 43 games this season, Saad has just seven goals and 16 points. A few anonymous scouts said that there are questions about his work ethic and whether he still has the talent to compete in the NHL. "Nada. Nothing (left)," said one Metropolitan scout. Meanwhile, a former player said he's the "last one on the ice and first one off. Maybe a change of scenery helps."

Last season, Saad scored 26 goals, and he's a two-time Stanley Cup champion over his career, so there's plenty of reason to believe he could turn around his game with the Vegas Golden Knights.

The Vegas Golden Knights also may have more room to give Saad an opportunity in their top six than the Oilers. Ice time and chance to win were probably the most important factors for Saad.

Even though the Oilers are in the market for a forward like Saad, perhaps it's best they pursue a trade for that need.

The Oilers already have enough in-season free agents and players on last-chance deals — they don't need another.