With the 2025 NHL Entry Draft set to commence on June 27th, the Edmonton Oilers find themselves in an unfamiliar position: without a pick in the first two rounds. Having traded away valuable draft capital in recent years to bolster their roster for a Stanley Cup push, the Oilers' first selection will come at 83rd overall in the third round. While landing a star at that position is statistically improbable, it's not impossible, and identifying the right player could add valuable depth to their prospect pool.

Given the Oilers' current situation – aiming to remain competitive while also needing to replenish their prospect pipeline – finding a player with a blend of skill and potential NHL readiness should be a priority. Here are three potential targets for the Oilers at 83rd overall:

1. Ethan Czata (C, Niagara - OHL): Czata is a solid two-way center. He recorded 21 goals and 34 assists for 55 points in 68 games last season. Czata is ranked as the 49th-ranked North American Skater and is projected to go in the 80s. The 6-foot-1 center will be back in the OHL next season as he's a couple of years away from being close to making the Oilers.

2. Jimmy Lombardi (C, OHL): Sticking with centres who play in the Ontario Hockey League, Jimmy Lombardi is another left-shot centre who could be available with the 83rd overall pick. Last season, Lombardi was teammates with the aforementioned Clattenburg, as well as Nathaniel Day, a netminder the Oilers drafted in the sixth round of the 2023 draft. Overall, Lombardi finished with 13 goals and 45 points in 63 games, along with an assist in five postseason games. Standing at 6'0”, 175 lb, Lombardi is described as “an excellent” skater who is a two-way forward.

3. Dakoda Rhéaume-Mullen (D, University of Michigan): Rhéaume-Mullen is a 6'1”, 182 lbs right-shot defenceman who scored three goals and nine points in 35 games for the Wolverines. He's rated as Daily Faceoff's 85th-best draft-eligible prospect and is considered an excellent skater and defender. His ceiling is that of a third-pairing defender.

Ultimately, the Oilers' choice at 83rd overall will depend on how the draft unfolds and which players are still available. However, by targeting players with a combination of skill, hockey sense, and character, Edmonton can increase their chances of finding a valuable contributor who can help the team both now and in the future.