The Edmonton Oilers are facing a persistent need for a reliable third-line center as the 2025-26 NHL season progresses. Despite their offensive firepower in the top six, the Oilers have struggled to find consistent production and stability in their bottom six forwards. This deficiency was highlighted in the previous season's Stanley Cup Final, where the opposing team's third line significantly outperformed Edmonton's. Addressing this issue is now a priority for General Manager Stan Bowman as the trade deadline approaches.
Currently, Adam Henrique is holding the third-line center position, but his performance has been underwhelming. At 35 years old, Henrique's contributions of just 9 points and a -9 rating this season have led to his line being consistently outscored. While he could be moved to the fourth line, the Oilers need a more impactful player to anchor their third line.
One internal option would be to shift Ryan Nugent-Hopkins down to the third line. However, this would break up the highly effective top line of Nugent-Hopkins, Connor McDavid, and Zach Hyman. The chemistry they have developed is undeniable, making it difficult to disrupt that successful combination.
As a result, the Oilers are actively exploring the trade market to acquire a suitable third-line center. According to Oilers insider Bob Stauffer, the team is targeting a right-shot center from a team that is on the edge of the playoffs. Stauffer also noted that the Oilers would need to move out some salary to make the cap situation work.
Several names have been suggested as potential targets for the Oilers. Charlie Coyle of the Boston Bruins is one possibility. Coyle is a big, right-shot center known for his strong defensive play and ability to win battles down low. His reliability in the faceoff circle and penalty-killing skills would be valuable assets for the Oilers. Nick Bjugstad, currently with Utah HC, is another player who has been linked to the Oilers. The Oilers previously acquired Bjugstad at the 2023 trade deadline, so there is familiarity there. Nic Roy of the Toronto Maple Leafs is also a potential option. Roy is a dependable bottom-six center who excels in penalty killing and forechecking.
Another potential target could be Jared McCann from the Seattle Kraken. McCann, a 29-year-old forward, has a proven track record of scoring and two-way play. However, acquiring McCann would require the Kraken to retain a portion of his salary, and the Oilers would need to clear additional cap space.
The acquisition of a solid third-line center would provide the Oilers with more lineup balance, reduce the workload on their top players, and improve their chances of contending for the Stanley Cup. As the trade deadline approaches, it remains to be seen which player the Oilers will ultimately acquire to fill this critical need.
