Rumors are circulating that the Edmonton Oilers and Boston Bruins might be discussing a trade involving Fabian Lysell, a former first-round pick who has yet to solidify his role in the NHL. Drafted 21st overall by the Bruins in 2021, Lysell was initially viewed as a highly skilled, top-six forward with exceptional skating and offensive abilities. However, the 22-year-old Swede has struggled to find a consistent spot in Boston's lineup, playing only 12 NHL games last season and recording just three points.
Lysell's potential acquisition by the Oilers could provide a low-cost, high-potential addition to their forward depth. After a strong 2022-23 season with the Providence Bruins in the AHL, where he posted 37 points in 54 games, his production dipped slightly last year. Despite this, he still exhibits flashes of high-end skill and elite skating, making him an intriguing option for Edmonton. The Bruins, with one year remaining on Lysell's entry-level contract, might be looking to capitalize on his potential value before it diminishes.
However, some analysts question whether Lysell is the right fit for the Oilers, who already have a surplus of smaller, skilled forwards. Moreover, potential returns that have been rumored, including promising rookie Matt Savoie or physical winger Vasily Podkolzin, seem unlikely from Edmonton's perspective.
Meanwhile, Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner has been reflecting on the team's consecutive Stanley Cup Final losses to the Florida Panthers. Skinner, whose performance in the playoffs was inconsistent, admitted that losing the Final for the second time was devastating but believes the experience will help the team recover faster. "I think going through it the first time, you go through that experience in the summer and then you realize the things you did well and the things you didn't do well," Skinner said. "Going through it a second time... does actually help you get over it quicker, just because you have to go back into training and do it all over again".
Skinner also revealed that he altered his offseason training regimen, delaying his return to on-ice activities to ensure he is as fresh and strong as possible for the upcoming season. Entering the final year of his contract, Skinner is determined to lead the Oilers back to the Stanley Cup Final and hopes his new approach will translate into a successful season. Despite speculation about a possible trade involving Skinner, he remains focused on improving his game and helping the team achieve its ultimate goal.
In other news, defenseman Evan Bouchard is generating buzz as one of the league's top defensemen. Following a strong 2023-24 season where he earned Norris Trophy votes, Bouchard has solidified his place as a cornerstone of the Oilers' blueline. His offensive prowess and consistent performance have earned him recognition among the league's elite, with some rankings placing him as high as sixth among all NHL defensemen. The Oilers have locked in Bouchard with a four-year, $42 million contract extension.
Bouchard's importance to the Oilers is further highlighted by his inclusion in Team Canada's orientation camp ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics. With heightened expectations following his lucrative contract, Bouchard aims to elevate his defensive consistency to match his offensive contributions.
