Edmonton Oilers Claim Defenseman Alec Regula Off Waivers from Boston Bruins
Jonathon McDowell 
(TSN.CA/NHL)
The Edmonton Oilers have made a move to strengthen their blue line depth, claiming 24-year-old defenseman Alec Regula off waivers from the Boston Bruins. While Regula has yet to play a game this season, his addition provides Edmonton with much-needed depth on the right side of the defense.
Who is Alec Regula?
Alec Regula, standing at an imposing 6-foot-4 and weighing 208 pounds, is a defenseman known for his physical presence and two-way play. A Detroit Red Wings third-round draft pick (67th overall) in 2018, Regula’s path to the NHL has been unconventional. He was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks in 2019, where he spent the bulk of his time developing in the AHL.
Over the course of his young career, Regula has appeared in 22 NHL games, recording 1 assist. His limited NHL experience belies his potential, as he’s shown flashes of strong play at the AHL level. With this move to Edmonton, the Oilers are betting that his size, skill set, and right-handed shot can complement their defensive lineup if called upon.
Edmonton’s Defensive Struggles and the Need for Depth
The Oilers have struggled defensively throughout the season, dealing with injuries and inconsistent performances on the blue line. With their ambitions set firmly on contending for a Stanley Cup, Edmonton’s management has been actively looking for ways to shore up their defensive group.
Claiming Regula off waivers is a low-risk move that could address these concerns for depth. While he may not slot into the lineup anytime soon, his physical tools and right-shot capability make him a valuable asset, particularly in matchups that require size and grit, or if more injuries arise.
What Regula Brings to the Oilers
Regula’s game is built around his size, reach, and ability to play a steady, physical style of hockey. Though his offensive numbers have been modest at the professional level, he has the potential to contribute in a two-way role. His experience in the AHL, where he has demonstrated defensive reliability and the occasional offensive spark, suggests he could develop into a solid NHL contributor with the right opportunities.
The Oilers will likely use Regula as an injury replacement initially, but his versatility could earn him a larger role as the season progresses. With only one point in his NHL career thus far, Regula will be looking to prove he belongs at the top level of competition.
A Fresh Opportunity in Edmonton
For Regula, being claimed by Edmonton represents a fresh start and an opportunity to carve out a meaningful role on a team that values defensive depth. The Oilers are hoping he can bring stability to their third pairing or provide a reliable backup option when injuries occur.
At just 24 years old, Regula still has time to develop his game and realize his full potential. Edmonton’s coaching staff will aim to help him adjust to their system and gain confidence at the NHL level.
What This Means for the Oilers Going Forward
The Oilers’ claim of Regula highlights their focus on improving their defensive depth as they push to solidify their playoff aspirations. While this move alone won’t solve all their blue-line issues, it provides another piece for head coach Kris Knoblauch to consider as he experiments with defensive pairings.
Edmonton’s success this season hinges not only on their star power up front but also on their ability to prevent goals. Adding a player like Regula is a calculated gamble that could pay off if he’s able to step in and contribute effectively when he gets an opportunity.
Final Thoughts
It remains to be seen how quickly Regula will make an impact for the Oilers, but the opportunity is there. With a chance to learn from veteran defensemen and a supportive environment, Regula has the tools to develop into a valuable piece for Edmonton’s defensive puzzle.
For now, Oilers fans will hope that this under the radar move helps the team strengthen its blue line as they continue their march toward playoff contention. Time will tell if Alec Regula can seize the opportunity and prove himself as an NHL regular.
