DEAL ACCEPTED: New York Rangers NHL All-Star Defenseman Carson Soucy Signs $144M Deal with Edmonton Oilers—”My “Reason for Choosing Oilers Over Canucks Was About..

In one of the most headline-grabbing moves of the NHL offseason, All-Star defenseman Carson Soucy has officially inked a massive $144 million deal with the Edmonton Oilers, turning down a highly competitive offer from the Vancouver Canucks in a decision that’s already sending shockwaves across the league.

Soucy, 30, had recently completed a successful stint with the New York Rangers, where he earned his first All-Star honors and became one of the most feared defensemen in the NHL. But despite Vancouver’s aggressive pursuit—including a near-matching financial package and the promise of a leadership role—Soucy chose Edmonton, and his reason was crystal clear.

“My reason for choosing the Oilers over the Canucks was about building a dynasty, not just playing it safe,” Soucy said during his introductory press conference at Rogers Place. “Vancouver was tempting, no doubt. But in Edmonton, there’s a fire—a culture—that I want to be part of. They’re not just chasing wins. They’re chasing history.”

The seven-year, $144 million contract is one of the most lucrative ever given to a defenseman in NHL history and comes with a full no-movement clause, signaling that Edmonton views Soucy as a foundational piece for years to come.

Oilers GM Ken Holland was ecstatic during the announcement.

“Carson is a game-changer. This is more than a signing—it’s a statement,” Holland said. “We’re not just trying to compete. We’re trying to dominate. Carson Soucy brings that edge, that fire, and that hunger that align perfectly with our locker room.”

Soucy’s decision to bypass the Canucks, a team much closer to his roots and where he had once expressed interest in playing, surprised many insiders. But the veteran blueliner explained that it came down to ambition.

“I’ve got a limited number of years left to give this everything I’ve got,” he said. “I didn’t want to just be part of a rebuild or a feel-good story. I want to raise that Cup, multiple times. I believe in Connor McDavid. I believe in Leon Draisaitl. And I believe this city is ready for greatness.”

Vancouver fans expressed a mix of heartbreak and frustration online. One die-hard supporter posted, “We needed Soucy. This one hurts. Edmonton got a beast.”

Now that the deal is done, Oilers fans are already dreaming of the impact Soucy will have on a blue line that has often been seen as the team’s weak link. With his physicality, shot-blocking, and commanding presence, Soucy is expected to anchor Edmonton’s defense alongside a high-octane offense.

As the 2025-2026 NHL season approaches, one thing is certain: Carson Soucy didn’t just sign a contract—he lit a fire under the Edmonton Oilers. And with $144 million riding on his shoulders, he’s skating in with one goal in mind:

“We’re not just playing for banners. We’re playing for greatness.”