The rivalry between the Calgary Flames and the Edmonton Oilers, often called the "Battle of Alberta," is one of the most intense in the NHL. Despite the close proximity and heated competition, trades between these two teams have been surprisingly rare. The scarcity of deals underscores the deep-seated animosity that permeates both the fan bases and the organizations themselves. However, examining the few trades that have occurred provides interesting insight into the teams' strategies and the shifting landscape of the NHL.
One of the earliest trades between the Flames and Oilers in recent history took place on March 3, 2010. The Flames acquired veteran defenseman Steve Staios in exchange for Aaron Johnson and a third-round pick. At the time, Calgary was looking to add experience and grit for a playoff push. Staios, known for his physical play and leadership, was expected to bolster the Flames' defensive corps. However, the trade didn't significantly impact Calgary's performance, and Staios' tenure with the team was relatively short-lived. Johnson played even fewer games for the Oilers. The draft pick from this trade was used to select Travis Ewanyk, who never reached the NHL but has played professionally in Europe.
Another notable trade occurred on November 8, 2013, when the Flames sent Roman Horak and goaltender Laurent Brossoit to the Oilers in exchange for Ladislav Smid and Olivier Roy. This deal was seen as an attempt by the Flames to add a veteran defenseman to guide their rebuilding team. Smid was a seasoned player known for his defensive reliability and shot-blocking ability. While Smid provided some stability, injuries hampered his time in Calgary, and he didn't become the long-term solution the Flames had hoped for. Brossoit, on the other hand, found success later in his career, eventually winning a Stanley Cup with the Vegas Golden Knights in 2023. Horak’s career took him to the KHL and other European leagues.
Perhaps the most talked-about trade between the Flames and Oilers in recent years was the swap of James Neal for Milan Lucic on July 19, 2019. Both players had struggled to live up to their contracts with their respective teams, making this a deal driven by the hope of a fresh start. Neal, a proven goal scorer, had a disappointing first season in Calgary, while Lucic's offensive production had declined in Edmonton. While Neal initially showed promise with the Oilers, scoring 11 goals in his first month, his performance soon declined, and he was eventually bought out. Lucic provided a physical presence and leadership for the Flames.
These trades highlight the challenges of making deals between rivals. The pressure to "win" the trade can be immense, leading to overpayment or a reluctance to part with valuable assets. Moreover, the familiarity between the teams means that each side is well aware of the other's strengths and weaknesses, making it difficult to find a mutually beneficial agreement. As of today, June 22, 2025, the general managers of the Flames and Oilers, Craig Conroy and Ken Holland, respectively, have not yet made a trade with each other.
Despite the limited history of trades, the Flames-Oilers rivalry continues to burn bright. The Battle of Alberta remains one of the most anticipated matchups on the NHL calendar, fueled by intense fan passion and a long history of memorable moments. While trades between the two teams may be infrequent, the competition on the ice is always fierce, ensuring that the rivalry will endure for years to come.
