The Edmonton Oilers and Anaheim Ducks, teams heading in opposite directions, could be potential trade partners. While the Oilers have been Stanley Cup contenders, the Ducks are rebuilding. Recent reports suggest a possible trade involving Olen Zellweger, a promising young defenseman for the Ducks.

Olen Zellweger, a 21-year-old defenseman, has emerged as a potential trade target for the Oilers. Bob Stauffer, a well-known Oilers insider, reported that the Ducks might be willing to part with Zellweger. Selected 34th overall in the 2021 NHL draft, Zellweger was once considered a top prospect for the Ducks, showcasing his talent at the 2022 World Juniors. However, the Ducks may not see a clear path for him to get consistent playing time.

Zellweger had a solid first full season in the NHL, scoring 7 goals and 20 points in 62 games while maintaining a +1 rating on a struggling Ducks team. Prior to that, he excelled in the AHL with the San Diego Gulls, where he amassed 37 points in 44 games. Despite his offensive upside, some concerns linger about his size and whether he can thrive in a physically demanding playoff environment.

Several factors contribute to the possibility of Zellweger being traded. The Ducks have a logjam of young, talented left-handed defensemen, including Jackson LaCombe and Pavel Mintyukov. With the Ducks aiming to add veteran players for a playoff push under new coach Joel Quenneville, moving Zellweger could bring in valuable assets. The Ducks have been actively reshaping their roster, already trading Trevor Zegras this summer.

While it's interesting that an Oilers insider is reporting on Zellweger, it is unclear whether the Oilers are interested in acquiring him. Zellweger is from Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, and being closer to home could benefit him.

For the Oilers, acquiring Zellweger could bolster their defensive depth. The Oilers are looking for internal development to push them over the top next season.

The hypothetical trade could involve the Oilers offering a promising prospect and a draft pick to the Ducks in exchange for Zellweger.

The Oilers and Ducks have a history of making deals. In March 2024, the Oilers acquired Adam Henrique and Sam Carrick from the Ducks in a three-team trade. The Ducks received a 2024 first-round pick and a conditional 2025 fifth-round pick from the Oilers.

It's important to note that this suggested trade is purely speculative and there is no confirmation that discussions have taken place between the two teams.