Good question about Stetcher. The Oilers Plan A was to extend its NHL defense depth with Stetcher and Brown as 7th & 8th dmen who could step into third pairing minutes. Fully believe both got term deals as poison pills to mitigate waiver claim considerations with ability to move up and down between Edmonton and Bakersfield. They essentially pre-purchased their trade deadline defense depth without giving up any precious draft collateral.
The Oilers are working through Plan B with loss of three defenders 6'3"; 6'4"; and 6'7" so the audition is on to find balance with own zone defending and PK ability. There is clearly some consideration for Brown's size and reach for important home plate defending, cycle breaking, and willingness to fight. Stetcher a game undersized d-man who's built a strong journeyman career with solid minutes on bad teams that gets leveraged into trade deadline insurance to good teams and fewer, reduced minutes. Dermott some versatility and known to this head coach and Jackson through his former agency. Looks like a three-way battle for two jobs. PK ability is going to be a key factor in their decision with loss of their two top right shot PK dmen. Feels like Emberton virtue of age and latent potential upside might get first crack at 2RD. Might be a candidate too for PK work.
Personally I think a realistic 2RD is a step beyond all these guys and a lingering roster hole that's existed for years.
Caggulia signed back with the Oilers last season pre-dating Bowman. He's become a good pro's pro for the organization in Bakersfield with his work ethic and attitude. An AHL NHL tweener this is a reward for the attributes he brings to the organization. Good energy player but I suspect the Oilers would have a bigger body in that role for NHL bottom six.