The Edmonton Oilers are navigating a crucial offseason following another Stanley Cup Final loss, facing key decisions regarding their roster and star players. Here's a breakdown of the latest news and rumors surrounding the team:

Evan Bouchard and the Offer Sheet Scare

The Oilers successfully locked up defenseman Evan Bouchard with a four-year, $42 million contract extension. However, it appears the team had to increase their offer to avoid a potential offer sheet from the Carolina Hurricanes. It was reported that many believed Bouchard would sign for around $9.5 million annually, but Carolina's threat forced Edmonton to exceed $10 million per year. Securing Bouchard was crucial, as he has emerged as a premier offensive defenseman. In the 2024-25 season, Bouchard contributed 14 goals and 53 assists in 82 games and added 7 goals and 16 assists in 22 playoff games.

Darnell Nurse Trade Rumors

There have been reports that the Oilers explored the possibility of trading defenseman Darnell Nurse. The team reportedly approached Nurse, who has a no-movement clause, to gauge his interest in playing elsewhere. However, Nurse apparently shut down those rumors, seemingly indicating his desire to stay in Edmonton. Nurse even responded to the rumors on Instagram with a meme referencing someone lying. While the Oilers may have considered moving Nurse to gain cap flexibility, his loyalty to the team and belief in their chances to win appear to have kept him in Edmonton. Darnell Nurse is under contract with the Oilers until 2030.

In the 2024-2025 season, Nurse managed an assist in Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Finals. Over 21 playoff games, he had eight points, 42 shots on net, 56 hits, and 42 blocked shots.

Connor McDavid's Future

With Connor McDavid entering the final year of his contract, speculation about his future in Edmonton has begun. While he isn't a free agent yet, there's already discussion about where he might land if he doesn't re-sign with the Oilers. Some analysts predict McDavid will sign a short-term "bridge" deal worth $16-18 million annually, making him the highest-paid player while giving the Oilers cap flexibility. Others suggest the Oilers are willing to let McDavid dictate the terms of his extension, with the team hoping he commits to eight more years.

McDavid's wife, Lauren Kyle, may have hinted at their future plans in Edmonton, commenting "Oil for Life" on a social media post. While this isn't confirmation, it suggests they may have no intention of leaving the franchise. The Oilers have started contract extension talks with McDavid. The Oilers face pressure to build a Stanley Cup-contending team around McDavid to avoid losing him in free agency in 2026.