The single biggest issue for the Oilers to resolve between now and the NHL trade deadline is the uncertainty of Ladislav Smid’s future with the club. On that note, those hoping to see the Czech rearguard signed to an extension got good news today.

According to the Twitter, a contract extension may be imminent.

A $4 million cap hit – the number Van Diest suggests – is less than ideal, but with a weak group of free agents on defence this summer it might be less than what Smid would get on the open market. Given the player’s repeatedly stated desire to stay in Edmonton, I wonder if the team might not be able to knock down the cap hit a little – perhaps by offering another year or by frontloading the deal a bit. Even if they can’t, Smid is the best left-side defenceman currently on the roster and is only replaceable via trade – something that’s likely to be a costly proposition.

In other words: in a perfect world, the dollars would be a little lower, but the critical thing is getting an important player under contract.

Plus, it means Oilers fans will continue to be treated to this once or twice a year: