Alec Regula, a defenseman, has agreed to a two-year, two-way contract extension with the #Oilers! In December, Boston claimed the 24-year-old off waivers.

In a season that has been marked by persistent blue-line reshuffling and the constant search for depth, the Edmonton Oilers have taken a decisive step in shoring up their defensive core by re-signing Alec Regula to a two-year, two-way contract extension. The agreement signifies more than just organizational stability—it offers the 24-year-old defenseman another chance to make a meaningful impact at the NHL level. Regula’s journey has already seen a fair share of stops, but this latest commitment from the Oilers suggests they see something worth investing in.

Alec Regula’s 2024–25 season took a dramatic turn in December when he was claimed off waivers by the Boston Bruins. At the time, it marked a potential fresh start for the 6-foot-4, right-shot defenseman who had bounced around between AHL teams and had only brief stints in the NHL. Though he never suited up for Boston in a regular-season NHL game, the Bruins’ decision to claim him highlighted the league-wide recognition of his potential.

Just a few weeks after that waiver claim, the Edmonton Oilers acquired Regula via trade or secondary transaction (details were not publicly emphasized), integrating him into their AHL affiliate system and giving him opportunities to stay ready for a potential NHL call-up. Now, with a two-year contract inked, Regula has found a more permanent home—at least for the time being.

The two-way structure of the deal allows for Regula to move between the NHL and AHL without waivers, giving the Oilers flexibility as they continue to navigate roster moves and injuries. More importantly, it shows the franchise’s interest in Regula’s development. With room for depth on the right side of their defense, Regula could play a key role in the Oilers’ plans—especially as they continue their quest for a Stanley Cup.

A third-round pick (67th overall) by the Detroit Red Wings in the 2018 NHL Draft, Alec Regula has long been touted as a player with untapped potential. Hailing from West Bloomfield, Michigan, and the son of former NHL athletic trainer Chet Regula, Alec had hockey in his blood. He developed through the U.S. National Team Development Program before playing in the OHL with the London Knights, where he posted strong offensive numbers as a puck-moving defenseman.

Regula’s 2019–20 season with the Knights was particularly impressive, as he tallied 27 goals and 33 assists for 60 points in just 56 games—a remarkable total for a defenseman at the junior level. His offensive instincts, coupled with his size and reach, made him an intriguing prospect for multiple NHL teams.

After being traded from Detroit to Chicago in 2019 in exchange for Brendan Perlini, Regula joined the Blackhawks’ system and made his NHL debut in 2021. However, his time in Chicago was marked by inconsistency. Despite flashes of high-level play, he struggled to carve out a permanent spot on the roster, bouncing between the NHL and AHL’s Rockford IceHogs. Eventually, in the summer of 2023, the Blackhawks moved him to Boston as part of a trade involving Taylor Hall and Nick Foligno.

For the Edmonton Oilers, this contract extension reflects a forward-thinking philosophy when it comes to defensive development. With a core of proven NHLers like Darnell Nurse, Mattias Ekholm, and Evan Bouchard anchoring the blue line, Edmonton still needs reliable depth—particularly on the right side. Regula’s size and style of play make him a perfect candidate for a bottom-pairing role, especially in physically demanding matchups.

The Oilers’ player development staff, led by Keith Gretzky and others, has reportedly been impressed with Regula’s improvement in positioning, gap control, and decision-making under pressure. While his offensive numbers have taken a back seat to his defensive responsibilities, there is still belief within the organization that Regula can evolve into a steady two-way presence.

Another factor is his cost-effective cap hit. With a two-way contract, Edmonton can manage Regula’s salary according to his NHL or AHL status. That financial flexibility is invaluable for a contending team that must navigate the tight constraints of the salary cap. Regula’s presence gives head coach Kris Knoblauch another option in case of injuries or performance issues among the regulars.

Since joining the Bakersfield Condors, the Oilers’ AHL affiliate, Regula has showcased exactly why teams remain interested in his services. Though not a flashy player, he brings a calm presence to the back end. His large frame allows him to win board battles and clear the crease effectively, while his puck-moving ability gives the Condors confidence transitioning out of their own zone.

In 42 games with Bakersfield this season, Regula recorded 4 goals and 17 assists for 21 points—solid production for a defenseman still working to establish himself as a full-time NHL player. Even more notable is his plus-minus rating and the minutes he logs on both the penalty kill and power play units, suggesting a growing trust from the coaching staff.

Regula has also served as a mentor of sorts to younger players in the system, drawing praise for his professionalism and leadership. That kind of locker room presence is another intangible that the Oilers likely considered when finalizing this extension.

At 24 years old, Alec Regula is no longer considered a raw prospect, but he’s also not past the point of growth. The coming two seasons may well define his NHL trajectory. This contract extension represents both a vote of confidence and a challenge: earn your spot and prove you belong.

For Regula, this is a second—or third—chance to cement himself as an NHL regular. The Oilers are offering him the platform, and now it’s up to him to seize it. With the organization currently eyeing a deep playoff run, there may be an opening for Regula to contribute, especially if injuries or fatigue hit the core defensemen.

The good news is that he seems ready. His recent play, both in practice and live action, shows a more mature, composed defenseman who is learning to rely on positioning and stick work rather than trying to do too much. These are all encouraging signs for a player trying to break through.

Looking at the bigger picture, Edmonton’s defense corps is set for some turnover in the next two seasons. With players like Cody Ceci and Brett Kulak approaching the final years of their contracts, there may be opportunities for someone like Regula to step in and take on a more consistent role. Philip Broberg, another young blueliner, is also expected to push for NHL minutes, but Regula’s size gives him a unique advantage.

The Oilers are banking on internal development to fill in around their stars. That’s why they continue to sign and invest in young players like Regula who may not be finished products but offer promise. It’s a model that has worked for other contenders—think of the Tampa Bay Lightning’s development of Erik Cernak or Colorado’s cultivation of Bowen Byram—and Edmonton is trying to replicate that success with its own prospects.

For Alec Regula, the ink is dry on the contract—but the real work begins now. This two-year, two-way deal is more than just a piece of paperwork. It’s an affirmation of the belief that he can still become a reliable NHL defenseman. It’s also a signal from the Edmonton Oilers that they are willing to invest in potential and development, even as they chase a championship.

There’s still much to be written in Regula’s NHL story. Whether he becomes a third-pair staple, a penalty kill specialist, or even just a dependable call-up option, his future is far from set in stone. But with this new contract, one thing is clear: Alec Regula has earned another shot—and this time, the path forward might be a little clearer.