The Edmonton Oilers are facing a pivotal offseason after falling short in the Stanley Cup Final for the second consecutive year. General Manager Stan Bowman is under pressure to retool the roster and maximize the remaining window with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. With limited cap space and key players like Evan Bouchard needing new contracts, difficult decisions must be made. Recent reports suggest that the Oilers are exploring trade options for wingers Evander Kane and Viktor Arvidsson to create much-needed financial flexibility.
The Motivation Behind the Potential Moves
The primary driver behind potentially trading Kane and Arvidsson is the Oilers' tight salary cap situation. Edmonton has under $12 million in available cap space and a growing list of free agents to consider. Connor McDavid is also eligible for a contract extension on July 1st, which could significantly impact the team's financial landscape. To build a deeper and more reliable supporting cast around their star players, the Oilers may need to shed salary by moving on from Kane and Arvidsson.
Evander Kane's Situation
Evander Kane, who carries a $5.125 million cap hit, has one year remaining on his four-year, $20.5 million contract. While Kane brings physicality and scoring ability to the top-six, his inconsistent playoff production and penchant for taking penalties may have made him expendable. Kane also possesses a modified no-trade clause, allowing him to veto deals to 15 teams, which could complicate finding a suitable trade partner. Several teams that could be a fit include the Anaheim Ducks and Pittsburgh Penguins. Some analysts have suggested a trade involving Kane for Thatcher Demko of the Vancouver Canucks could address Edmonton's need for goaltending.
Viktor Arvidsson's Situation
Viktor Arvidsson, signed last summer to a two-year, $4 million AAV contract, had a disappointing first season in Edmonton. While he tallied 15 goals and 27 points in 67 regular-season games, his role diminished during the playoffs. Arvidsson has a full no-movement clause, giving him control over his destination. However, reports indicate that Arvidsson is willing to work with the Oilers to find a new team, suggesting a mutual desire for a change. Potential destinations for Arvidsson include the Boston Bruins, New Jersey Devils, and Detroit Red Wings.
What's Next for the Oilers' Roster?
If the Oilers successfully trade Kane and Arvidsson, they would free up over $9 million in cap space. This additional flexibility could be used to address several needs:
Potential Lineup Changes
If Kane and Arvidsson are traded, the Oilers' forward lines could look significantly different next season. Young players like Matt Savoie and David Tomasek may be asked to step into more prominent roles.
Conclusion
Trading Evander Kane and Viktor Arvidsson would represent a significant shakeup for the Edmonton Oilers. While both players have contributed to the team, their contracts may be hindering the Oilers' ability to build a championship-caliber roster. If Bowman can successfully move these players and use the freed-up cap space wisely, the Oilers could be in a better position to contend for the Stanley Cup in the years to come.
