The Oilers have signed their third player in today’s free agent frenzy. Tampa Bay defender Keith Aulie has agreed to a one-year deal that will pay 800 K with the club. Aulie is a big boy and can be best described as a depth defender.
The 6’6” 228-pounder brings more size to the table and little more NHL experience. Aulie was a regular for Tampa Bay, playing 45 games, during the lockout shortened 2013 season, but only played in 15 games this past season for the Lightning.
His scouting report compliments The Hockey News describes him as a calm player who makes the smart play and is a good skater considering his size. He’s a guy that is described as a decent all-around player with a little physical upside.
Aulie had a 41.6% Corsi For % along with one assist in 15 games this past season, while he posted a 46.9% Corsi For in 45 games with seven points in 2013.
Aulie is far from a home-run player, but is an upgrade over Mark Fraser in the number seven slot and likely means the Oilers will be taking their time with both Oscar Klefbom and Darnell Nurse. This is a decent depth signing and gives the Oilers seven options at the NHL level.
More to come as it happens.
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