As the NHL trade deadline approaches, Ryan Hartman is a player worth watching. The Minnesota Wild, currently solidifying their playoff position, are considering moving Hartman to create cap space for another significant addition. This comes after their acquisition of Quinn Hughes from the Vancouver Canucks.
Hartman, a right-shot center, could be a strategic fit for the Edmonton Oilers. Known for his grit and versatility, Hartman brings 14 goals and 26 points in 54 games this season, surpassing last year's goal total and matching his point tally. While his current production doesn’t quite match his career-best season in 2021-22, where he notched 34 goals and 65 points, his ability to play in the top six or anchor his own line adds valuable depth.
Despite not being a Selke Trophy contender or a faceoff ace (43 percent this season), Hartman’s tenacity is something the Oilers could use more of, especially as they gear up for the playoffs.
Financially, the Oilers face a challenge. To bring Hartman on board, they’d need to manage their cap space carefully.
With Hartman’s $4 million cap hit and Andrew Mangiapane’s $3.6 million contract on the books, a direct swap doesn’t align with the Wild’s goals of adding a top-six forward. The Oilers might need to explore other avenues, like moving Mangiapane in a separate deal or making additional cap-clearing moves, possibly involving players like Mattias Janmark or Alec Regula.
The cost of acquiring Hartman could be steep, as the Wild may not settle for a minimal return despite their desire to clear space. Trades between contenders are rare, but they often involve a mix of draft picks and strategic player exchanges. The Oilers might find it tricky to offer the Wild a suitable top-six forward in return, complicating potential negotiations.
As the deadline looms, teams will continue to strategize, and Hartman’s situation is one of many intriguing storylines to follow.