As the NHL trade deadline on March 6 approaches, the Edmonton Oilers are reportedly exploring several options to bolster their roster for a deep playoff run. General Manager Stan Bowman is expected to be active in the market, with the team's needs primarily focusing on adding scoring depth and a physical, defensively-minded defenseman.

One area of focus for the Oilers is acquiring a forward who can contribute in a third or fourth-line role. According to Elliotte Friedman, the team is looking for someone who is comfortable accepting a role with limited minutes, which has been a challenge for players like Andrew Mangiapane. Mangiapane's name has surfaced in trade discussions, although his value may have decreased due to a difficult season. The Oilers are reportedly looking to move his cap hit to create space for other additions.

Several potential targets have been linked to the Oilers. Bobby McMann of the Toronto Maple Leafs has emerged as a prime target. McMann, a pending unrestricted free agent, is having a career year with 17 goals and 12 assists in 53 games. Other names mentioned include Boone Jenner and Charlie Coyle from the Columbus Blue Jackets, both of whom are pending unrestricted free agents. Ryan O'Reilly, who has one year remaining on his contract, is another plausible option for the Oilers. The Oilers have also been linked to Vancouver Canucks players like Jake DeBrusk.

To create cap space, the Oilers might consider trading Mangiapane and potentially waiving or trading goaltender Calvin Pickard. These moves could free up approximately $4.6 million to use towards acquiring a third-line center.

On the defensive side, the Oilers are reportedly seeking a defenseman in the mold of Mattias Ekholm – a physical presence with a strong defensive game. While specific names haven't been heavily circulated, this suggests the Oilers are prioritizing a player who can provide stability and toughness on the blue line.

With a strong top-six forward group comprised of Connor McDavid, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Zach Hyman, Leon Draisaitl, Vasily Podkolzin, and others, the Oilers are aiming to complement their existing talent with depth players who can contribute in specific roles. The team possesses draft capital to facilitate trades, including their second and third-round picks this year, and their first, second, and two fifth-round picks next year.