The Edmonton Oilers have plenty of work to do this summer in order to get back into Stanley Cup playoff contention, but they’ve already made decisions on a pair of restricted free agents. Jason Gregor of TSN reports that the team will not issue qualifying offers to Tobias Rieder or Ty Rattie, making the pair of forwards unrestricted free agents. The team could still negotiate a new contract with either one, but after disappointing seasons it would not be surprising for both to have to find work elsewhere in 2019-20.
Rieder, 26, failed to score a single goal for the Oilers this season despite appearing in 67 games. The German forward was eventually called out by CEO Bob Nicholson at an Oilers’ function for his lack of offensive production, making it clear that the team wouldn’t bring him back next season. Despite his terrible year, Rieder actually has shown in the past that he can be a fine depth scoring option, scoring at least 12 times in each of his first four years in the league. A qualifying offer would have been for $2MM however, more than anyone will likely pay after a zero-goal season.
Rattie, 26, wasn’t quite as bad for the Oilers as he recorded four goals and 11 points in 50 appearances. Still, the depth forward was never able to really capture the same offensive ability he has shown in the minor and junior leagues. Originally selected 32nd overall in 2011 by the St. Louis Blues, Rattie has just 30 points in 99 career NHL contests.
Where is that Leaf fan that wanted to “pry” Rattie from the Oilers? Lolz. This guy is junk.