The Edmonton Oilers are gearing up to strengthen their defense, particularly on the right side, as trade talks heat up. With salary cap limitations and limited assets, GM Stan Bowman is on the lookout for a cost-effective right-handed defenseman who can step into a second-pairing role if needed.
One intriguing possibility is Michael Kesselring, a player the Oilers originally drafted back in 2018. Craig Button, a respected analyst, has floated Kesselring’s name as a potential target.
Button noted, “You know who might be another fit for the Oilers? Kesselring.
I don’t know if they could get him back, but that might be another option.”
Kesselring, now 26, is a pending restricted free agent in the final year of his two-year, $2.8 million contract with the Mammoth. In his first season with Buffalo, following a trade from Utah, he’s recorded one assist, 19 hits, and 32 blocks over 24 games.
A reunion with Kesselring could be beneficial for Edmonton, but they might face stiff competition. Teams like the Boston Bruins, Dallas Stars, Detroit Red Wings, Ottawa Senators, and San Jose Sharks are all on the hunt for right-side defensive help. With Kesselring’s affordable $1.4 million salary for 2025-26, he’s an attractive option.
Buffalo, however, may be reluctant to part with the 6’5”, 215-pound defenseman, given their own need for right-handed depth. Despite battling injuries and limited ice time, averaging just 14:05 minutes per game, Kesselring remains a valuable asset.
New GM Jarmo Kekalainen might entertain offers if they’re strong enough, especially since he inherited the roster from Kevyn Adams, who initially acquired Kesselring and Josh Doan in exchange for JJ Peterka. While Doan has been a success for the Sabres, Kesselring’s journey has been more challenging, leaving Buffalo with a decision to make regarding his future as a restricted free agent this offseason.