The Edmonton Oilers are reportedly exploring options to trade one of their forwards, sparking speculation about potential roster changes. With a relatively healthy roster returning, the team is looking to alleviate a crowded forward core and potentially free up salary cap space for future acquisitions.
Several factors contribute to this situation. Zach Hyman's return from a lengthy absence and Jack Roslovic's activation from injured reserve have added to the Oilers' forward depth. Additionally, Kasperi Kapanen is expected to return soon from long-term injured reserve. This influx of players has created a squeeze, limiting the Oilers' ability to accrue cap space for the trade deadline.
Names circulating in trade discussions include Andrew Mangiapane and Noah Philp. Mangiapane, in particular, has been mentioned due to his $3.6 million salary for this season and the next, making him the sixth-highest-paid forward on the team. His performance has not quite lived up to expectations since being brought back to Alberta last summer, with only five goals and 11 points in 39 games this season. He also has a full no-trade clause this season, though he might waive it for a better opportunity. Philp was placed on waivers, generating some interest from other teams, primarily due to his status as a right-handed center, a valuable commodity in the league.
The Oilers' potential interest in trading a forward could also be influenced by the performance of prospects like Isaac Howard, who is excelling in the AHL with nine goals and 20 points in 15 games. Recalling Howard would further complicate the forward situation, increasing the pressure to make a move.
While the possibility of trading a prominent player like Leon Draisaitl has been discussed in the past, such a move appears unlikely at this time. Draisaitl remains a key part of the Oilers' core, demonstrated by his strong performance this season, with 52 goals and 54 assists in 71 games. He recently broke an eight-game goalless drought with a hat trick against the Calgary Flames, showcasing his offensive capabilities. Draisaitl's commitment to the team and his desire to win a Stanley Cup in Edmonton are well-documented.
Instead of trading Draisaitl, the Oilers might focus on acquiring additional talent to complement their existing stars. General Manager Stan Bowman has already made moves to improve the team, including acquiring Tristan Jarry, but further upgrades may be necessary to solidify their chances of making a deep playoff run. Potential trade targets could include a top-six forward who can also play center or a top-four right-handed defenseman.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Oilers will need to carefully evaluate their options and make strategic decisions to optimize their roster for a Stanley Cup push. Moving a forward to create cap space and roster flexibility could be a key step in that process.
