Oilers Emerge as Potential Destination for Blues' Star Defenseman
As the NHL trade deadline approaches, the Edmonton Oilers are reportedly eyeing a significant addition to their defensive corps. According to NHL insiders, the Oilers are a potential landing spot for St. Louis Blues defenseman Colton Parayko.
Oilers General Manager Stan Bowman recently acquired goaltender Tristan Jarry, but with Jarry already sidelined due to injury, the focus may shift to solidifying the team's blue line. Adding a top-six forward or a depth piece for the bottom six are other options for the Oilers. However, acquiring a defenseman like Parayko could provide stability and experience to the Oilers' roster.
Parayko, 32, is currently in the fourth year of an eight-year, $52 million extension he signed with the Blues in 2021. Despite the significant contract, some believe Parayko's value will hold up as the salary cap increases.
Jeremy Rutherford and Chris Johnston of The Athletic identified the Oilers as a logical destination for Parayko if the Blues decide to make him available. Johnston noted Parayko's steady contributions to the Blues over the past decade, making him a sought-after asset. The Vegas Golden Knights are also a potential suitor for Parayko.
While the Blues may be hesitant to part with Parayko, the team is reportedly open to discussing trades for several of their veteran players. Justin Faulk, Jordan Binnington, and Brayden Schenn are among the names that have surfaced in trade rumors.
The Oilers have a crowded defensive situation, potentially making a trade necessary to create roster space. Troy Stecher, a 31-year-old defenseman, has been mentioned as a possible trade candidate. Stecher has played in six games this season, averaging 13.5 minutes of ice time. Ty Emberson is another defenseman who could be on the move.
Edmonton has a history of trading with St. Louis. In August 2024, the Oilers acquired prospect defenseman Paul Fischer and a 2028 third-round pick from the Blues in exchange for future considerations. The trade occurred after the Blues signed offer sheets for Oilers' restricted free agents Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway.
The NHL trade freeze went into effect on December 19, but that doesn't necessarily prevent teams from laying the groundwork for future deals. As the trade deadline draws closer, the Oilers will need to carefully assess their needs and determine whether pursuing Parayko is the right move to bolster their Stanley Cup aspirations.
