Oilers Sign Sheldon Souray

[Thrillhouse]

The Edmonton Oilers have agreed to terms with unrestricted free agent Sheldon Souray on a five-year deal, securing the heavily coveted defenceman’s services through the 2011-12 season.

The 6’4” native of Elk Point, Alberta joins the Oilers after spending the past six seasons with the Montreal Canadiens. Last season, Souray led the Canadiens in power-play goals with 19 and penalty minutes with 135, while ranking second in goals (26) and points (64). His 26 goals led all NHL defencemen, six ahead of second ranked Dan Boyle of the Tampa Bay Lightning. He also led all NHL defencemen (tied with Vancouver’s Sami Salo) with six game-winning goals.

Oilers General Manager Kevin Lowe says, “With the addition of Sheldon, we solidify our defence in a big way and also answer some of the issues regarding scoring and toughness. Sheldon’s game has consistently improved and we’re going to rely on him in many different situations.”

Originally drafted by the New Jersey Devils in the 1994 NHL Entry Draft (3rd round, 71st overall), Souray has compiled 186 points (66-120-186) including 821 penalty minutes in 506 career NHL games. In 34 career playoff games, Souray has recorded 10 points (3-7-10) with 65 penalty minutes.

“I’m heading home to Alberta and I can’t wait to step onto the ice at Rexall Place”, said Souray. “It’s always been a terrific building to play in. I couldn’t be happier with my decision and I can tell you it was an easy one to make. I’m looking forward to playing in Edmonton for a great organization and believe me, I know how good the fans in Edmonton are.”

The 30-year-old will celebrate his 31st birthday tomorrow, July 13th.

[Thrillhouse]

Ha! See, Edmonton isn't the crappiest place on earth!

[Snipes19]

Nice signing.
Souray will add skill, a nice shot, a big body, and a physical presence on the Oilers blue-line. He's the top defenseman in this year's FA class, so it looks like the Oilers finally landed a top-tier free agent (even though they needed a forward the most). I have to say, it was almost scary how quiet Souray was during free agency. I mean there were rumors about him going to the Rangers and Devils, but after those fell through, nobody knew what was going to happen or where this guy would end up. I was expecting more talk about him. But he will help the Oilers a lot - nice pick up.

[ChickenSwede]

First reaction: Why would he do that?

Second: Great!

Should've had Jason Smith to pair him up with though or minus 30 next season might not be too far fetched.

[Isles4life]

And the Souray sweepstakes finally comes to an end. Good signing by Edmonton, he definitely helps that blueline a lot. I'm not so sure he'll make a big enough impact to make them a real competitive team, but he does make them better.

[nyislesfan45]

damn...

[BGDDYKWL]

This is unconfirmed, but word is it's a 5-year deal worth $27-$27.5M. Seems very low, especially with the money others have gotten thus far, but if it's true Edmonton makes out quite well on this one.

[peacemaker]

Soon to come; His wife refuses to move to Edmonton, and Souray demands a trade.

Oh, wait, his wife left him last year. That explains this signing then, doesn't it?

[peacemaker]

Congrat's to all Oiler fans by the way.

[suckerpunch]

Wow...

If the Sens had been able to get rid of the burden of Gerber's contract, he would have made a great addition to our Blue line. Tell you what, we'll trade Redden for him. Don't expect to see Souray fight too often with his wrist issues, but he is a great signing for the Oilers nonetheless.

BTW, Edmonton is still the crappiest place on earth.

[avoidlloyd]

Great he's out of the East. Didn't want to see him 8 times a year in a Devils' uni.

[NYR36]

Now they have 2 puck moving D-men.

I'm so glad this is over cause I DID NOT want him on the Rangers. Now I can sleep easy at night.

Good to see Lowe land someone in UFA. I hope he does well in Edmonton.

[jkidd]

Perfect place for him! Boogaard will have a bigger target to go after in an Oiler sweater now! Hopefully he stands up to him though, unlike everyone else there.

Best of luck in Edmonton - be sure to get that bullseye off your back Sheldon...

[bengino]

well i'm sad to see him go... and my fiancee will be as well... at that amount, how could Gainey not sign this guy?? it's about how much he paid for all the players he signed combined!

I'm gonna miss seeing him play Hamrlik will NEVER come close to replacing Souray on the Blue line... we are definately not making the playoffs next year

[rondo]

Congrats to Souray and the oilers. The Oilers are deserving of this after the bullshi_ Pronger pulled on them last year. Hopefully he doesn't meet a broad with the same make-up as Prongers. BTW what a wuss Pronger must be at home. I hope Burke gave her a big kiss because she made the biggest move during last off season...