Duncan Keith makes major announcement and the Chicago Blackhawks pay the price

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Josh tupper
July 8, 2022 (12:56)

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The Edmonton Oilers acquired Duncan Keith last summer to come to Edmonton and be a key part of their blueline. When acquired Keith provided a stabilizing factor on the Oilers blueline. It had previously been reported that Keith planned to return to the Oilers, but today he confirmed that would not be the case.

Confirming #Oilers D Duncan Keith has reached a decision to retire, leaving Edmonton with lots of cap flexibility now. #Blackhawks will also be hit with a cap recapture charge, which was a difficult part of Keith's discernment process.

First to report: @PierreVLeBrun

Due to the structure of his contract, this decision will have an impact on the Chicago Blackhawks cap situation next year as they face a cap recapture penalty.

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#Blackhawks will have a $5.5M cap penalty this season and $1.9M next season

Between this move and trading. Zach Kassian to the Arizona Coyotes last night, this move will provide the Oilers with much needed cap space. The Oilers will likely look to find a common ground with a Evander Kane on a new contract. There is also some belief that the Oilers will target. Claude Giroux when free agency opens on July 13th.