Edmonton Oilers' forward Mattias Janmark, a relatively recent addition to the team, has unexpectedly surfaced in trade rumors, according to NHL insider David Pagnotta. This development comes as the Oilers navigate a crowded roster and salary cap constraints with the impending return of key players from injury.
Janmark, 34, is in the second year of a three-year contract with a $1.45 million cap hit. He is currently sidelined with an undisclosed injury and has yet to appear in a game this season. Last season, he recorded 2 goals and 18 points in 80 games.
Pagnotta mentioned Janmark as a potential trade candidate during a recent appearance on the "DFO Rundown". He suggested that moving Janmark, along with other players, could free up necessary cap space for the Oilers.
The Oilers are facing a roster crunch with Zach Hyman and Alec Regula nearing their return from the injured list. Hyman's $5.5 million cap hit is currently on long-term injured reserve (LTIR), but once he is cleared to play, the Oilers will need to create sufficient cap space to accommodate his return. With only $325,000 in available cap space, including Hyman's LTIR designation, the Oilers have limited financial flexibility.
The team may also consider trading defensemen to clear space. Troy Stecher and Ty Emberson have been mentioned as potential trade candidates. Stecher, 31, is in the final year of his contract with a reasonable $787,500 average annual value. Emberson, 25, has been involved in trade rumors in the past.
While the Oilers could explore trading a defenseman, Janmark's name has emerged as a prominent one in trade discussions. Despite not having played this season, Janmark's experience and versatility could be appealing to teams seeking to bolster their bottom-six forward depth.
Other Oilers news includes Connor McDavid reaching 1,100 career points and Jack Roslovic's recent hot streak. The Oilers have been struggling with inconsistent play, but Roslovic has been a bright spot with two goals and three assists in his last four games. McDavid recently recorded his 1,100th point.
The Oilers' management is actively exploring options to optimize the roster and create financial flexibility. The unexpected emergence of Janmark in trade rumors underscores the challenges the team faces as it strives to compete for a Stanley Cup.
