The Edmonton Oilers' less-than-stellar start to the 2025-26 season has, predictably, ignited a flurry of trade speculation, with the goaltending position emerging as a primary area of concern. While the tandem of Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard has failed to provide the stability the team desperately needs, the potential acquisition of Nashville Predators' star Juuse Saros may not be the panacea some fans in Edmonton are hoping for.
NHL insider Frank Seravalli has expressed reservations about the Oilers pursuing Saros, citing several factors that could make the trade a risky proposition for the team. Seravalli notes that Saros is in the first year of a massive eight-year, $61.92 million contract, which extends until he is 39 years old. This long-term commitment represents a significant financial investment for a team that already has considerable cap constraints.
Moreover, Saros' recent performance has been a cause for concern. While he has been considered one of the league's top goaltenders, his numbers have declined over the past two seasons. Seravalli questions whether Saros would be the right fit for the Oilers, especially considering their existing cap situation and their current goaltending options.
The Oilers' current starter, Stuart Skinner, is in the final year of his three-year, $7.8 million contract and will become an unrestricted free agent after the 2025-26 season. Skinner's performance this season has been inconsistent, with a 4-3-3 record, a 2.54 goals-against average, and a .899 save percentage. While he has shown flashes of brilliance, he has not yet established himself as a reliable number-one goaltender.
Acquiring Saros would undoubtedly provide the Oilers with a more proven netminder, but the cost of acquiring him could be substantial. The Predators would likely demand a significant package in return, potentially including a young roster player, a high draft pick, and other valuable assets. Some argue that this is a necessary price to pay for a team with Stanley Cup aspirations and two of the league's best players in Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
However, others caution against mortgaging the future for a goaltender who may not be the perfect fit. The Oilers have been elite for years, but they have struggled to find consistent goaltending, which is often the difference between contenders and champions. Some believe that giving up a young forward or a first-round pick is not a reckless move but a necessary one when a team's best players are in their prime.
The Oilers also need to consider their current cap situation. McDavid's team-friendly deal has allowed the team to strengthen its roster, but the team is still facing consistency issues. According to Jeff Marek, Edmonton should not worry about Saros' $61.92 million contract, which could give the Oilers long-term stability in net.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to pursue a trade for Juuse Saros will depend on the Oilers' assessment of their current goaltending situation, their long-term cap outlook, and their willingness to part with valuable assets. While Saros could potentially provide a significant upgrade in net, the risks and costs associated with acquiring him may outweigh the potential benefits. As the trade deadline approaches, the Oilers will need to carefully weigh their options and determine the best course of action for the team's future.
