Edmonton Oilers’ Connor Brown Struggles Continue Amidst Disappointing Season

Edmonton Oilers forward Connor Brown is enduring a challenging 2023-24 NHL season, marked by a lackluster performance and minimal offensive output, garnering disappointment from fans and analysts alike.

With just five points in 54 games, all assists, Brown’s production is on track to hit a personal low in a season where he has been a consistent presence in the lineup.

An article by TSN highlights Brown as one of the top 10 biggest disappointments for the season, drawing attention to his struggles in finding the back of the net amidst what initially seemed like a strategic acquisition.

While Brown, known for his defensive value and penalty-killing prowess, initially started the season on a promising note in the top six alongside star Connor McDavid, his offensive shortcomings soon became apparent, leading to a demotion to the bottom six and occasional healthy scratches.

The 30-year-old forward’s underwhelming performance raises questions about his recovery from an ACL injury sustained last season while with the Washington Capitals, requiring subsequent surgery.

Despite a modest $775,000 basic cap hit this season, Brown’s performance bonus of $3.225 million, triggered by reaching 10 games played, will impact the Oilers’ salary cap for the upcoming season.

Looking ahead, unless Brown stages a remarkable turnaround in the remainder of the season or playoffs, speculation suggests it is unlikely the Oilers will opt to re-sign him for the 2024-25 campaign, given his lackluster performance and significant salary implications.