As the NHL season progresses, the trade winds are picking up, with several teams looking to bolster their rosters for a playoff push or, in some cases, initiate a rebuild. The Edmonton Oilers and Vancouver Canucks are two teams generating significant buzz in the rumor mill, alongside several prominent players who could be on the move.
Oilers Eyeing Additions
The Edmonton Oilers, after a slow start, have surged back into contention in the Western Conference, largely due to the offensive prowess of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. However, General Manager Stan Bowman is reportedly looking to address several needs to solidify their Stanley Cup aspirations.
The team is still open to trading Andrew Mangiapane, with the Detroit Red Wings, Winnipeg Jets, Anaheim Ducks, and San Jose Sharks as potential destinations. In terms of acquisitions, the Oilers are said to be seeking scoring depth on the wings, a third-line center, and another dependable defenseman. While names like Jake DeBrusk and Evander Kane have been floated, a reunion with Kane appears unlikely. Boone Jenner of the Columbus Blue Jackets is reportedly a target for the third-line center position, while Luke Schenn and Logan Stanley have been mentioned as possible lower-cost options to add defensive depth. The Oilers have recently activated Tristan Jarry and Jake Walman from injury.
Canucks Enter Rebuild Mode
In Vancouver, a different narrative is unfolding. The Canucks have acknowledged they are entering a rebuilding phase, making virtually every player on their roster available for trade. TSN insider Pierre LeBrun suggests that "all bets are off" regarding potential moves.
Elias Pettersson's name has been circulating prominently in trade discussions, with reports indicating that the Canucks are willing to listen to offers for the star center. Several teams, including the Carolina Hurricanes, Los Angeles Kings, and New York Rangers, have been linked to Pettersson. Other Canucks players who could be on the move include Conor Garland, Kiefer Sherwood, and Nils Höglander. The Canucks are reportedly holding firm on their asking price for Sherwood, with reports suggesting they turned down offers centered around a second-round pick and a strong prospect. However, the looming Olympic roster freeze and Sherwood's injury status could force Vancouver to lower their expectations. Despite earlier reports, Jake DeBrusk has stated his desire to stay in Vancouver. The Canucks also reportedly explored the possibility of trading Evander Kane back to Edmonton, but the Oilers declined.
Other Trade Rumblings
Beyond the Oilers and Canucks, other teams and players are generating trade buzz. The Boston Bruins are reportedly making a strong push to acquire Calgary Flames defenseman Rasmus Andersson, potentially offering Mason Lohrei and a first-round pick in exchange. The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing a goaltending dilemma with the impending return of Anthony Stolarz from injury, potentially making him available via trade. The Ottawa Senators are actively seeking to upgrade their blue line and potentially add a top-six forward. Marc-André Fleury's recent comments about a potential return to the NHL have sparked speculation, with the Oilers and Montreal Canadiens mentioned as possible destinations.
