As the NHL trade deadline approaches on March 6, 2026, speculation is intensifying around potential player movements, with the Edmonton Oilers reportedly showing interest in Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman, Brandon Carlo.
According to Elliotte Friedman on the "32 Thoughts" podcast, the Oilers have "kicked tires" on Carlo, though the accuracy of these rumors remains unclear. Some sources corroborate the Oilers' interest, while others dismiss it.
Edmonton's potential pursuit of Carlo comes amid scrutiny of their defensive play. Goaltender Tristan Jarry recently voiced concerns about the number of high-quality scoring chances the team is surrendering, suggesting a need for adjustments on the blue line. Oilers defenceman Mattias Ekholm echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of defensive awareness and discipline. The Oilers are looking for an “Ekholm-junior” type, and Carlo could potentially fill that role.
Carlo, 29, is a right-shot, veteran shutdown defenseman with playoff experience. He is in Year 5 of a six-year, $24.6 million contract, with a cap hit of $3.485 million through the 2026-27 season, after Toronto retained salary. The Bruins are retaining 15% of his salary in the trade last year. His contract also includes a modified no-trade clause with an eight-team no-trade list.
The Maple Leafs acquired Carlo from the Boston Bruins last year in exchange for forward Fraser Minten, a top-five protected 2026 first-round pick, and a 2025 fourth-round pick. While Carlo's tenure in Toronto has been steady, some believe he hasn't fully met expectations, potentially due to his pairing with Morgan Rielly. A change of scenery might unlock more of his potential.
Despite the trade rumors, Carlo has expressed a desire to stay in Toronto. "I love it here. I want to stay here," Carlo said after the Maple Leafs' 5-2 victory over the Edmonton Oilers on Tuesday. He acknowledged the challenges of dealing with trade speculation, emphasizing the importance of focusing on what he can control. “It's tough for sure. From my experience, all I can really do is stay present, focus on what I'm doing for this team right now, that's my biggest goal,” Carlo said.
If the Maple Leafs trade Carlo, it would likely be part of a larger plan. The decision to trade him depends on the team's priorities, the demand for him on the market, and both teams' assessment of their playoff chances.
In addition to Carlo, other Maple Leafs players, such as Bobby McMann, have been mentioned in connection with the Oilers. McMann, a pending UFA, is reportedly of interest to Edmonton, who are looking to improve their third-line depth.
As the trade deadline nears, the Oilers face pressure to address their defensive concerns and solidify their roster for a playoff push. Whether they pursue a trade for Carlo remains to be seen, but the rumors highlight their desire to improve their defensive play.