The Edmonton Oilers are reportedly looking to trade forward Viktor Arvidsson to create much-needed cap space. Arvidsson, 32, is entering the final year of his two-year, $8 million contract, carrying a $4 million AAV cap hit. While he has a no-movement clause, recent reports suggest he's willing to work with the Oilers to find a suitable trade destination. This openness significantly increases the chances of a deal being reached. Several teams could be a good fit for the Swedish winger, who is aiming to find a better opportunity to showcase his skills. Here are four potential trade destinations for Viktor Arvidsson:
1. Detroit Red Wings: The Red Wings have been actively seeking to add to their top-six forward group, and Arvidsson could be a budget-friendly option. Despite a disappointing season in Edmonton, where he posted 27 points in 67 games, Arvidsson has a proven track record of offensive production, including multiple 60-point seasons. A connection with fellow Swede Lucas Raymond could unlock Arvidsson's offensive potential. The Red Wings likely wouldn't have to give up significant assets, making this a low-risk, high-reward move for Detroit.
2. Anaheim Ducks: The Ducks possess a considerable amount of cap space and need to reach the salary cap floor. With $36 million in available cap space, they could easily absorb Arvidsson's $4 million cap hit. Anaheim is also looking to add veteran players to help their young core compete for a playoff spot. Arvidsson could provide valuable experience and scoring depth. If the Ducks' season goes south, they could flip Arvidsson at the trade deadline for additional assets, making this a win-win scenario. The arrival of new faces in Anaheim, such as Jacob Trouba and coach Joel Quenneville, could make the team a more attractive destination for players.
3. Minnesota Wild: The Wild are finally free from the cap constraints of the Zach Parise and Ryan Suter buyouts and have around $15.78 million in cap space. They need help in their middle-six and could use more scoring. The team seems to be open to trading Marco Rossi, and adding Arvidsson could provide some much-needed offensive punch. The Wild have a good mix of draft picks to offer in a trade.
4. A Team Looking for Cap Space: According to reports, the Oilers aren't expecting to get a significant return for Arvidsson; the primary goal is to free up cap space. This means that any team looking to shed salary could be a potential destination. A team with limited cap space might be willing to take on Arvidsson's contract in exchange for a draft pick or a prospect, allowing the Oilers to achieve their primary objective. Several teams may fit this description closer to the start of free agency, as teams maneuver to fit new acquisitions under the cap.
The Oilers are aiming to free up cap space to address other needs, such as signing Evan Bouchard to a new contract, improving their goaltending, and potentially re-signing key players. With Arvidsson willing to work with the team, a trade seems likely. A potential comparable trade could be the Mason Marchment deal, where the Dallas Stars sent him to the Seattle Kraken for a 2025 fourth-round pick and a 2026 third-round pick. While it remains to be seen where Arvidsson will land, these four destinations offer intriguing possibilities for both the player and the teams involved.
