With free agency just around the corner, the Edmonton Oilers are looking to bolster their roster after another deep playoff run. General Manager Stan Bowman has already made some moves, including trading Evander Kane to Vancouver to free up cap space. The Oilers have also re-signed Trent Frederic to an eight-year deal. However, with limited cap space, Bowman needs to be strategic in targeting free agents who can address specific needs. Here are six players the Oilers should consider:
1. Brock Boeser (RW): The Oilers have been searching for a scoring winger to play alongside Leon Draisaitl for what feels like forever. Boeser, coming off a 25-goal, 50-point season, could be the answer. Although he would command a significant contract, he might be willing to take a discount to join a Stanley Cup contender. Acquiring Boeser would solidify the Oilers' offensive firepower.
2. Nick Bjugstad (C/RW): Bjugstad is familiar with the Oilers, having played 27 games for them after being acquired at the 2023 trade deadline. The 32-year-old right-shot forward can provide valuable depth in the bottom six and contribute on the penalty kill. His previous experience with the team would make him a seamless fit.
3. Nikolaj Ehlers (LW): Ehlers could be a perfect fit to play with Draisaitl. The Danish left-winger has consistently produced throughout his career, scoring 24 goals and 63 points last season for the Winnipeg Jets. His speed and offensive abilities would complement Draisaitl's playmaking skills. However, his projected $8.1 million cap hit might be too expensive for the Oilers.
4. Andrei Kuzmenko (LW): The Oilers got a firsthand look at Kuzmenko's scoring ability in the first round of the Stanley Cup Finals, where he tallied three goals and six points. He could provide secondary scoring and offensive depth on the wing.
5. Jack Roslovic (C/RW): If the Oilers are looking for a third-line center, Roslovic could be a good replacement for Adam Henrique. The right-shot center is coming off a season with a career-high 22 goals and 39 points. Roslovic is a fast skater and is projected to earn a little over $4 million on a three-year deal.
6. Cody Glass (C): Glass is a strong center with solid speed and an above 50% faceoff taker. He scored 6 goals and 22 points in 65 games last season. At 26 years old, Glass could be the perfect third-line center for the Oilers.
The Oilers also have several of their own free agents to consider re-signing, including Connor Brown and Corey Perry. Brown had 30 points in the regular season and nine more in the playoffs. Perry, at 40 years old, surprised everyone with 19 goals and 30 points. However, both players may be seeking more than the Oilers are willing to pay. Ultimately, the Oilers' free agency decisions will depend on their cap situation and their ability to shed salary. By targeting players who can address their specific needs, the Oilers can improve their roster and increase their chances of competing for a Stanley Cup.