As the 2025-26 NHL season approaches, speculation is rife regarding potential trades, and the Edmonton Oilers are no exception. Allan Mitchell of The Athletic recently published a column dissecting the Oilers' most valuable trade assets, with a surprising name topping the list: Matthew Savoie.

Savoie, a highly touted winger and former first-round pick, is expected to compete for a top-six role in Edmonton this season. After a strong year in Bakersfield, he could find himself playing alongside Leon Draisaitl. However, Mitchell argues that contending teams like the Oilers often can't afford to develop multiple rookie wingers simultaneously. With Ike Howard also vying for a roster spot, Savoie could become an attractive trade chip if he struggles or if the Oilers need immediate scoring help.

Goaltender Stuart Skinner is another notable name on Mitchell's list. Despite demonstrating his potential as a No. 1 goalie, Skinner has battled consistency issues. While his $2.6 million cap hit is appealing, General Manager Stan Bowman has indicated that the goaltending position is under evaluation. If a significant upgrade becomes available, Skinner might be part of the trade package. Tristan Jarry of the Pittsburgh Penguins has been mentioned as a possible goalie target for the Oilers. Jarry's value around the league isn't very high right now, making him a possible "buy low" candidate.

Vasily Podkolzin, Beau Akey, and Maxim Berezkin round out the list. Podkolzin, who showed promise playing with Draisaitl last season, faces competition from Howard and others. Akey, an offensive-minded defenseman set to debut in the AHL, might be expendable given Evan Bouchard's presence. Berezkin continues to excel in the KHL, but his uncertain future in North America could make him a tradeable asset.

The Oilers' forward depth has been diminished with the departure of Connor Brown, Jeff Skinner, Viktor Arvidsson and Corey Perry. While they did acquire Andrew Mangiapane, they are still looking to add top-six help.

The Oilers are also looking to potentially add a defenseman. Four of their top seven defensemen will be UFAs at the end of the season, including Mattias Ekholm and Jake Walman. Olen Zellweger from the Anaheim Ducks has been mentioned as a possible target.

Other recent rumors surrounding the Oilers include:

• Mattias Janmark may be traded because he might be an extra forward on many nights.
• The Oilers may be interested in Bryan Rust, but his acquisition is unlikely due to the Oilers' cap situation and lack of desirable trade assets.
• The Oilers are actively looking to replace Calvin Pickard with a goalie with a higher ceiling. Michael DiPietro of the Boston Bruins has been mentioned.

As the Oilers aim to build a Stanley Cup-contending team around Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, General Manager Stan Bowman will need to make strategic decisions regarding trades and acquisitions. The element of surprise with Savoie's name on the trade list adds an intriguing layer to the Oilers' offseason.