As the NHL season progresses, the Edmonton Oilers are reportedly looking to bolster their roster for a deep playoff run. Several rumors have surfaced, linking the Oilers to potential acquisitions, including Buffalo Sabres forward Alex Tuch and Vegas Golden Knights center Tomas Hertl.
Oilers' Pursuit of Alex Tuch
Alex Tuch's name has been repeatedly mentioned in connection to the Oilers. Insiders like Jeff Marek and David Pagnotta have noted the increasing "noise" surrounding Tuch and the Oilers. Tuch, 29, is a strong, two-way winger with a knack for scoring, having recorded two 36-goal seasons in the past three years. In the 2024-2025 season, he tallied 36 goals and 67 points in 82 games. He also brings a physical edge, evidenced by his league-leading number of blocked shots by a forward last season.
Tuch is entering the final year of his contract, and negotiations for an extension with the Sabres appear to have stalled. Pierre LeBrun of TSN indicated that while discussions are ongoing, nothing is imminent, and Tuch could command a contract of $10 million AAV or higher. With the Sabres potentially focusing on the future if they don't see progress by mid-season, Tuch could become a prime trade target.
Edmonton's interest in Tuch stems from their need for a top-six forward to complement Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Tuch's two-way game and ability to play alongside skilled centers make him an attractive option for the Oilers. His affordable $4.75 million cap hit this season further increases his appeal. Some reports mention that Tuch's wife has ties to Western Canada, which could make Edmonton a preferred destination.
Tomas Hertl's Potential Availability
While not as strongly linked as Tuch, Tomas Hertl's name has also emerged in trade rumors. The Vegas Golden Knights, facing cap constraints, might be looking to move Hertl and his $8.137 million cap hit.
Hertl, 31, is a three-time 30-goal scorer with a proven track record. He was traded to Vegas by the San Jose Sharks in March 2024. However, recent reports suggest he could be on the move again, possibly to the Eastern Conference. Marco D'Amico reported that the Carolina Hurricanes could be a potential landing spot.
Hertl possesses a modified no-move clause, allowing him to list three teams he'd prefer to be traded to. This gives him some control over his destination. In June 2025, Hertl stated that the Golden Knights assured him that they were counting on him for the next year. However, the situation remains fluid.
Other Oilers Trade Targets
Besides Tuch and Hertl, the Oilers are also reportedly considering other options to improve their roster. Adrian Kempe of the Los Angeles Kings has been mentioned as a possible target. Additionally, with some uncertainty in the Oilers' goaltending situation, names like Jeremy Swayman of the Boston Bruins, Tristan Jarry of the Pittsburgh Penguins, and Semyon Varlamov of the New York Islanders have been speculated as potential trade targets. Connor Ingram of the Utah Mammoth is also a goalie target. Jack Roslovic was signed by the Oilers recently and is another name to keep an eye on.
With Connor McDavid's recent contract extension providing some cap flexibility, the Oilers have an opportunity to make significant additions to their roster. General Manager Stan Bowman is expected to explore all options to maximize the team's chances of competing for the Stanley Cup.
