Colton Dach is set to make a significant impact this season with the Edmonton Oilers after signing a two-year, $2.4 million contract as a restricted free agent. At just 23 years old, Dach is looking forward to a fresh start under the guidance of new head coach Mike Babcock, whose demanding coaching style he believes will enhance his performance on the ice.
Dach’s Performance and Goals for the Upcoming Season
During the 2025-26 NHL season, Dach recorded 13 points, comprising five goals and eight assists, across 61 games. After being traded from the Chicago Blackhawks to the Oilers on March 4, he showcased his potential by earning four points in just eight games with his new team. Despite averaging only 10:09 of ice time during that stretch, Dach is determined to increase his playing time by demonstrating his ability to excel in all three zones and contribute offensively.
Originally selected as a second-round pick (No. 62) in the 2021 NHL Draft by Chicago, Dach is eager to play for his hometown team. His previous two seasons with the Blackhawks were marked by rebuilding efforts, but now he is ready to embrace the opportunity to be part of a competitive squad. He has expressed enthusiasm about the passionate fan base in Edmonton and his desire to remain with the team for the long term.
As the Oilers prepare for the new season, expectations are high following a disappointing first-round playoff exit to the Anaheim Ducks last spring. Having reached the Stanley Cup Final in both 2024 and 2025, only to fall short against the Florida Panthers, the arrival of Babcock has further elevated the team’s aspirations. Dach is set to play a crucial role by adopting a heavier, smarter approach to the game, focusing on defensive reliability while providing secondary scoring to complement the team’s star players, Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
Despite facing challenges early in his time with Edmonton, including a lower-body injury that sidelined him for 12 games, Dach has remained optimistic. He returned to play in the last five games of the regular season and participated in all five playoff games against the Ducks. Although he found the injury frustrating, Dach noted that his confidence grew as he built chemistry with his teammates and coaching staff, setting the stage for a promising season ahead.