As the NHL trade winds pick up ahead of free agency on Tuesday, the Edmonton Oilers are potentially looking at a significant shakeup within their forward ranks. Recent moves by the Detroit Red Wings have fueled speculation about possible trades involving Oilers forwards, particularly Viktor Arvidsson.
The Red Wings recently traded Vladimir Tarasenko to the Minnesota Wild for future considerations. This move freed up $4.75 million in cap space and a roster spot for Detroit. This has led to speculation that Detroit may be a potential landing spot for Arvidsson. Arvidsson played under Detroit's new head coach, Todd McLellan, during their time with the Los Angeles Kings, potentially making him a good fit for the Red Wings.
Arvidsson, 31, has one year left on his $4 million contract. While he scored 15 goals for the Oilers, his production didn't quite meet expectations, and he struggled with injuries, even being a healthy scratch during the playoffs. Arvidsson may be looking for more ice time and a chance to increase his production to secure a bigger deal next summer, and his pre-existing relationship with McLellan in Detroit could provide that opportunity.
The Oilers are also reportedly exploring trades involving Adam Henrique. Moving Arvidsson and Henrique could be part of a broader strategy to reshape the Oilers' forward group. Several insiders have linked Vancouver Canucks winger Brock Boeser to Edmonton.
The Oilers have already made some moves, including signing Kasperi Kapanen to a one-year deal worth $1.3 million and forward Noah Philp to a one-year deal at $775,000. The Oilers also acquired a 2025 fourth-round pick from the Vancouver Canucks in exchange for Evander Kane.
Edmonton is also focused on re-signing defenseman Evan Bouchard before free agency opens. There is confidence that a deal will be reached, potentially around four years at $9.5 million per season. The Oilers also want to extend Corey Perry's contract.
These potential changes come as the Oilers seek to improve their forward depth. While the Oilers boast stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, there's a need for more consistent scoring throughout the lineup.
The Oilers' current top line of Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Connor McDavid, and Zach Hyman has been effective, but the team needs more contributions from its other forwards. The team's forward scoring depth has been a concern.
With free agency approaching, the Oilers have limited time to make these potential moves. The Red Wings' shedding of Tarasenko's contract has opened up possibilities for Edmonton, potentially leading to a trade that could benefit both teams.
