As the March 6th NHL trade deadline approaches, the Edmonton Oilers are reportedly exploring options to bolster their defensive depth. Among the names circulating is Seattle Kraken defenseman Jamie Oleksiak. A hypothetical trade proposal has emerged, suggesting the Oilers acquire Oleksiak in exchange for Mattias Janmark, prospect Beau Akey, and a conditional 2027 first-round pick. This raises the question: Does this trade make sense for the Oilers?
Oleksiak, a 33-year-old pending unrestricted free agent, carries a $4.6 million cap hit. The proposed trade assumes the Kraken would retain 50% of his salary, reducing his cap hit to $2.3 million for the Oilers. He has recorded eight points (three goals, five assists) in 43 games this season and boasts a plus-eight rating. Throughout his career, the 6-foot-7, 252-pound defenseman has accumulated 43 goals and 111 assists in 723 games.
For the Oilers, the appeal of Oleksiak lies in his size, physical presence, and defensive capabilities. The team is aiming for a deep playoff run and is looking to add a player with a steady, physical presence who can solidify the blue line. Some analysts have described the type of defenseman Edmonton seeks as an "Ekholm Jr.", alluding to Mattias Ekholm, who was acquired last year and has become a key piece on the Oilers' blue line. Oleksiak could provide stability and experience to the Oilers' second or third defensive pairing, potentially moving on from Alec Regula and Ty Emberson.
However, the cost of acquiring Oleksiak is a significant consideration. Giving up a first-round pick, even a conditional one, is a steep price to pay for a rental player, especially since the Oilers are already without their first-round pick in 2026. Some argue that such a high price should be reserved for a true "impact piece," such as a top-six forward, a third-line center, or a top-four defenseman capable of playing on the top two pairings. Other potential targets, like Luke Schenn or Logan Stanley of the Winnipeg Jets, might offer a more cost-effective way to bolster the defense.
From the Kraken's perspective, the proposed trade offers a solid prospect in Beau Akey, a veteran forward in Mattias Janmark, and valuable draft capital. Janmark could potentially be flipped again for more draft picks. The Kraken are in a position where they may consider selling at the 2026 Trade Deadline if they are not in a playoff spot. Several players on the Kraken roster are on expiring deals, including Jordan Eberle and Jaden Schwartz, making them potential trade candidates.
Ultimately, whether the suggested trade makes sense depends on Oilers General Manager Stan Bowman's assessment of the market and the team's needs. If Bowman believes Oleksiak is the best option available to address the Oilers' defensive depth issues, and if he is comfortable with the price, then the trade could be justifiable. However, if other, more affordable options exist, or if the Oilers prioritize adding scoring depth up front, then pursuing Oleksiak might not be the most prudent course of action. The Oilers have been linked to other potential acquisitions, including Winnipeg Jets defensemen Luke Schenn and Logan Stanley. The team has also been mentioned as a possible destination for Seattle forward Jared McCann.
