A prominent winger has reportedly halted contract negotiations with their current team, igniting rumors of a potential move to the Edmonton Oilers. While the specific player remains officially unnamed, speculation points towards Adrian Kempe of the Los Angeles Kings and Alex Tuch of the Buffalo Sabres as possibilities.
Kempe, currently in the final year of his contract with the Kings, is set to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2025-26 season. While he has expressed a desire to remain in Los Angeles, reports indicate that contract talks have stalled. Some analysts believe that Connor McDavid's recent team-friendly contract extension with the Oilers could provide the cap flexibility needed to pursue a high-profile addition like Kempe. Kempe's speed, scoring ability, and defensive awareness are seen as a potentially ideal complement to McDavid on Edmonton's top line.
Adding fuel to the fire, NHL analyst Jeff Marek has suggested that Kempe, "one of the only players that could keep up with Connor McDavid," might see Edmonton as an attractive destination, especially if the Kings' performance declines.
Alex Tuch's name has also surfaced in connection to the Oilers. According to NHL insider David Pagnotta, Tuch and his agent have decided to pause contract negotiations with the Sabres. This decision was potentially influenced by the Sabres' slow start to the season and disagreements over salary. Tuch is reportedly seeking a significant contract, and Edmonton might be willing to meet his demands.
The Oilers have been struggling to find consistent offense, particularly from their wingers. The team's management is reportedly seeking a physical, skilled, top-six winger with a scoring touch, making both Kempe and Tuch potential targets.
The situation is further complicated by the rising NHL salary cap, which is projected to increase to $104 million next season and $113.5 million in 2027-28. This increase gives the Oilers more financial flexibility to pursue high-impact free agents. Connor McDavid's extension has given the Oilers approximately $18 million to work with to add another big name to their forward group.
However, the Oilers are not the only team that may be interested in Kempe or Tuch. If either player reaches free agency, a bidding war is likely to ensue. The Oilers will need to make a compelling case to convince either player that Edmonton is the best place to compete for a Stanley Cup.
As the season progresses, the performance of both the Kings and the Sabres could influence the decisions of Kempe and Tuch, respectively. If either team struggles, the allure of joining a contender like the Oilers could become even stronger.
For now, the Oilers and their fans can only wait and watch as the drama unfolds. The possibility of adding a top-tier winger to play alongside McDavid is an enticing prospect, but whether it becomes a reality remains to be seen.
