SAN JOSE — Trent Frederic, like many professional athletes, is essentially a grown-up version of his childhood self.
Joining the Edmonton Oilers this spring, Frederic is like that friendly, tall kid who`s new to the team, eager to fit in and get to know everyone. At 27, he brings the same approachable and eager attitude he had when joining a new group as a kid.
Even in the NHL, the desire to belong and connect with teammates is universal.
“The guys have been great, inviting me to dinners and including me. I feel like I’m becoming part of the team,” Frederic mentioned after a practice in Vegas on Tuesday. “Being with the team on this road trip will be beneficial for me to integrate further.”
For Oilers fans, Frederic is an anticipated addition who has been delayed due to an ankle injury since his trade deadline arrival.
To understand what he brings, we asked him directly.
“Beyond the game itself, I aim to bring a lot of energy to the bench. I like to be a cheerleader, motivate the guys. I try to be positive and encouraging,” he explained. “The good thing is, I’ve had time to get to know everyone. So, when I play, everyone will know my personality. They know who I am, and they can support or challenge me as needed.”
This acquisition of Frederic is seen in two parts.
First, his contribution to the Oilers` Stanley Cup aspirations this season. Second, his decision as an upcoming unrestricted free agent, whether to choose the Oilers over his hometown St. Louis Blues after the season.
Coach Kris Knoblauch indicated in San Jose on Wednesday that Frederic is likely to enter the lineup soon. “Hopefully, Frederic will be able to play at some point during this road trip, possibly in the last game,” said the coach.
Zach Hyman, a key player for the Oilers, is enthusiastic about Frederic joining the team, especially after a 3-2 victory in Vegas on Tuesday. He values what Frederic can add to the lineup.
“He’s a big, physical player with an edge, and he can score… He’s versatile and can play anywhere in the lineup,” Hyman commented. “He brings physicality and toughness, elements that are highly valued, especially with Evander Kane`s absence this year.”
In Tuesday`s game, the Oilers were missing key players like McDavid, top wingers Frederic and Kane, defenseman Ekholm, and goalie Skinner. These are significant additions returning to a team that`s been improving recently.
“You’re adding a top player like McDavid,” Hyman stated. “Plus an excellent top-pairing defenseman in Ekholm, and healthy Kane and Frederic – all impactful players. And Skinner back in goal.”
Frederic is integrating into the Oilers, but he admits to following his former team, the Boston Bruins.
“I was the first to be traded, so I wasn’t there when everything unfolded,” he said. “I was in rehab – actually in the cold tub after a game when I learned about the trade.”
“I didn’t get to say goodbye to everyone properly. Charlie McAvoy was kind enough to drive me to the airport, so I saw him, but that was about it.”
Frederic is seen as just what the Oilers need – a player bringing size and physicality.
Both for the immediate future and long term, although he’s trying not to focus on free agency just yet.
“It was on my mind all year, and honestly, it wasn’t helpful mentally,” he admitted. “Regarding signing here or elsewhere, I’m really trying not to think about it. Since the trade, I haven’t spoken much with my agent. I prefer not to know anything right now.”
He`s focused on returning to play when medically cleared.
