As the March 6th NHL trade deadline approaches, the Edmonton Oilers find themselves in a familiar position: contending for the Stanley Cup and looking to bolster their roster for a deep playoff run. With the Olympic roster freeze coming into effect on February 4th and lasting until February 22nd, the Oilers and other teams face a "mini Trade Deadline" to get ahead of the freeze. Here’s a look at the Oilers' most pressing needs and potential targets as they navigate the trade market.
1. Top-Nine Forward (Winger or Center)
The Oilers' primary focus is acquiring a top-nine forward to provide secondary scoring and add depth to their offensive attack. While Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl continue to drive the offense, the team needs more consistent contributions from its bottom-six forwards. According to Pierre LeBrun, the Oilers came out of the GM meetings with a plan to pursue a top-nine forward, but it is unclear whether they prefer a center or a winger. One option could be moving Ryan Nugent-Hopkins down to the third-line center position if a winger is acquired.
Potential Targets:
- Jonathan Toews (Winnipeg Jets): Jeff Marek suggested Toews as a potential target if the Jets become sellers. Despite struggling this season, Toews remains a reliable faceoff man and brings veteran leadership. However, his contract includes playoff bonuses that could create cap issues for the Oilers.
- Blake Coleman (Calgary Flames): Coleman could be a fit as a top-six winger who can also play in the middle six. However, trading with a bitter rival like the Flames could be difficult and might require overpayment.
- Jared McCann (Seattle Kraken): McCann is an intriguing option who checks many boxes for the Oilers: top-six winger, can play 3C, good defensively, and affordable. However, it's questionable whether the Kraken would trade him to a divisional rival.
2. Defensive Depth
Another area of concern for the Oilers is their defensive depth. While the top pairing of Mattias Ekholm and Evan Bouchard is solid, the team could use another reliable defenseman to provide stability and experience on the blue line.
Potential Targets:
- Dougie Hamilton (New Jersey Devils): While Hamilton is a skilled right-handed offensive defenseman, his $9 million cap hit and 10-team "yes" trade list could make him difficult to acquire.
- Carson Soucy (New York Rangers): Soucy is a veteran shutdown defenseman on an expiring deal who can slot in on a contender's third pair. A bonus is that he can play on the right side in a pinch.
- John Marino (Utah Mammoth): Marino is a right-shot defenseman that could boost the D-Core.
3. Third-Line Center
The Oilers have struggled to find a consistent and effective third-line center. Adding a player who can win faceoffs, provide defensive responsibility, and contribute offensively would significantly improve the team's depth and balance.
Potential Targets:
- Boone Jenner (Columbus Blue Jackets): Jenner is a hard-nosed winger who can provide offense and play a strong defensive game. His expiring contract and affordable cap hit make him an appealing option.
- Ryan O'Reilly (Nashville Predators): O'Reilly is a detailed two-way center and playoff warrior who would be a tremendous addition for any center-seeking contender.
The Oilers have already made one significant move by acquiring Tristan Jarry to address their goaltending. As the trade deadline nears, General Manager Stan Bowman will need to make strategic decisions to address the team's remaining needs without sacrificing valuable assets. With the NHL's Olympic roster freeze and the strong play of other Western Conference contenders like the Colorado Avalanche, the urgency is on for the Oilers to solidify their roster and make a serious push for the Stanley Cup.
