The Edmonton Oilers are poised for potential roster adjustments, and the anticipated return of defenseman Jake Walman could be the catalyst for a series of changes. Walman's return from the Long-Term Injured Reserve (LTIR) is expected to happen soon, possibly during the upcoming games against the Chicago Blackhawks and Nashville Predators.
To accommodate Walman's $775,000 cap hit, the Oilers have already sent veteran defenseman Riley Stillman to the AHL's Bakersfield Condors. Stillman played four games with the Oilers, averaging just over 12 minutes of ice time. While he didn't register any points, he contributed with seven hits and four blocked shots. Beyond clearing cap space, Stillman's demotion suggests the Oilers are eager to integrate Walman back into the lineup.
Coach Kris Knoblauch has indicated that Walman was close to returning, with the games against Chicago and Nashville as potential targets. Walman has been skating with the team and feels ready to play. His likely return to the lineup could see him paired with Darnell Nurse, potentially replacing Alec Regula or Ty Emberson, who have been tested in that role but have struggled. The Oilers are hoping Walman will provide a more stable defensive presence alongside Nurse.
Further moves are expected to create the necessary cap space for Walman and potentially goalie Tristan Jarry's return from LTIR. Adam Henrique is out with an injury until after the Olympic Break and is expected to be placed on LTIR. The team is also reportedly exploring trading options for Andrew Mangiapane, hoping to move his entire $3.6 million contract. The Winnipeg Jets, Anaheim Ducks, and Vancouver Canucks have been mentioned as possible destinations for Mangiapane. Sending Ike Howard back to the AHL is another possibility.
Goaltender Tristan Jarry is also nearing a return. He has been skating with the team and is expected to be back in the lineup this week. Jarry's return will create a goaltending conundrum for the Oilers, who have been using Calvin Pickard and Connor Ingram in his absence. Ingram has performed well, while Pickard has struggled.
The Oilers are aiming to secure their first division title since 1987. The team has come close in recent seasons, even reaching the Stanley Cup Final in 2024 and 2025. These potential roster moves signal a commitment to improving the team's performance and solidifying their position in the Pacific Division.
