Oilers Rumors: Latest on Vincent Desharnais Extension Talks

Edmonton Oilers defenseman Vincent Desharnais has been a good story for the club this season. For the first time in his career, the 27-year-old has spent the entirety of a season in the NHL, and he has emerged as a key part of the Oilers' blue line because of it.

Due to this strong season, the Oilers have been looking to get Desharnais, a pending UFA, signed to an extension. However, according to Ryan Rishaug, the talks between the Oilers and Desharnais have been put on pause and will resume once the playoffs are over.

Sounds like talks on a Desharnais extension are on hold for now. Two sides had been discussing a deal but with playoffs coming, they'll pause and resume after the team is finished.
— Ryan Rishaug (@TSNRyanRishaug) April 12, 2024

While some may feel concerned about the Oilers and Desharnais ending talks for now, it is understandable that they are. The playoffs are the most important time of the year, and the team's focus must be on winning games. Negotiations sometimes can become a distraction.

Desharnais is a player who the Oilers should surely look to keep around beyond this season. The 6-foot-7 defenseman is incredibly hard-working and makes the Oilers far more difficult to go up against because of his tough style of play.

In 73 games this season, Desharnais has one goal, 11 points, 125 hits, 114 blocks, and a plus-5 rating.