Edmonton Oilers goalie makes shocking exit from NHL to join KHL team
Photo credit: The Hockey Writers
After years in the Oilers' system, Olivier Rodrigue takes his career in a surprising new direction overseas.
For most young goalies, finally making it to the NHL is the dream.
For Olivier Rodrigue, it seems that chapter has closed, at least for now.
The 24-year-old goaltender, drafted 62nd overall by the Edmonton Oilers in 2018, has signed with Barys Astana of the KHL.
His move comes after Edmonton chose not to issue him a qualifying offer on June 30, making him a free agent (TSN).
Rodrigue spent the past three seasons with the Bakersfield Condors in the AHL, where he often carried the starting duties when Calvin Pickard was called up or Jack Campbell departed the organization.
He finally made his NHL debut in 2024-25, appearing in two games, but his future in Edmonton was far from secure. Arbitration rights, a challenging AHL season, and a crowded depth chart - bolstered by young goalies Nathaniel Day and Eemil Jonsson - all contributed to the Oilers moving on.
Olivier Rodrigue's NHL departure opens a new chapter with Barys Astana in the KHL
Rodrigue leaves behind flashes of success at the AHL level, including stretches where he was among the league's more consistent goalies. But the chance to play significant minutes in the KHL may offer the stability he couldn't find in North America.
«Sometimes you have to make the move that's best for your career, even if it means leaving home,»
one hockey insider told TSN.Rodrigue's signing also reflects the competitive nature of NHL goaltending depth. I think his decision shows that sometimes the best path forward is outside the league, especially when opportunity dries up.
Whether he ever returns to the NHL remains unknown, but for now, Barys Astana will be his stage. As Rodrigue himself said in past interviews,
«I just want to play, and I want to win wherever I am.»
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