MORE: Everything to know about the Kassina/Tkachuck feud
Set to become an unrestricted free agent this offseason, the 29-year-old forward had his future looming with the expectation of hitting free agency. Instead, he will receive a pay raise; he is currently finishing out a three-year deal worth $1.95 million AAV. Kassian was traded to Edmonton on Dec. 28, 2015, by Montreal in return for Ben Scrivens.
With the trade deadline looming, the Oilers are likely to be buyers as they vie for a playoff spot, but now there’s no doubt that Kassian will be a part of that run. Oftentimes, players set to become UFAs are viewed as possible rentals for other teams.
Kassian: “If Tkachuk has the puck and I can hit him clean, I’m not going to pass on it”
Kassian has 28 points (13 goals, 15 assists) in 44 games this season. His biggest impact has been felt as an enforcer, especially in the infamous Dec. 27 meeting against the Flames when he laid a beating on Tkachuk after the Flames forward took two sizable — and confrontational — hits on him.
The nine-year veteran is expected to demolish his career-high 29 points (2013-14) as he is on pace for 49 despite missing five games this season.
