As the NHL trade deadline looms on March 6, the Edmonton Oilers find themselves in a familiar position: firmly in the playoff race and staring down the barrel of a roster that could use a final tweak-or maybe a few. The big question isn’t whether they should make a move. It’s where they should make it.
Goaltending has stabilized. The blue line, while not elite, has found a rhythm.
So if there’s one area that could use a jolt, it’s the forward group-specifically, adding a versatile top-nine piece who can plug into the lineup and make an impact right away. Fortunately for Edmonton, there are some intriguing targets out there, depending on what kind of punch they want to add.
Left Wing: Jake DeBrusk
Let’s start with the name that makes the most sense-and might sting the most for a division rival. Jake DeBrusk, currently skating for the Vancouver Canucks, checks just about every box the Oilers should be looking for.
He brings speed, scoring touch, physicality, and playoff experience. And while poaching from a Pacific Division opponent isn’t ideal, it’s not impossible either-especially if Vancouver continues to slide and shifts into seller mode.
DeBrusk has 28 points through 53 games and carries a $5.5 million cap hit. That’s not cheap, but it’s not unreasonable for a player who can drive play and adapt to any of Edmonton’s top three lines.
He’s a dual-threat winger who’s comfortable in the dirty areas, and he’s logged heavier minutes this season as the Canucks have shuffled their roster. Simply put, he’s the kind of guy who elevates his game when it matters most-and the Oilers could use more of that come spring.
It’s worth noting the irony here: Edmonton traded Evander Kane to Vancouver back in June, and while Kane’s contract is in the same ballpark, his production hasn’t kept pace with DeBrusk. If the Oilers want to flip that narrative and get stronger in the process, this is the kind of bold move that could do it.
Center: Jason Dickinson
If Edmonton wants to shore up the middle of the ice, Jason Dickinson is a name that deserves more attention. He’s not flashy, and he’s battled injuries this season, but when healthy, he brings a reliable 200-foot game that coaches love and teammates lean on.
Dickinson has chipped in 11 points through 40 games this year, but his value goes beyond the stat sheet. Just last season, he set career highs in goals (22) and points (35), while finishing 12th in Selke Trophy voting-no small feat for a player on a rebuilding Chicago squad. He also led the Blackhawks in hits and takeaways, showing he’s not afraid to do the gritty work that wins playoff games.
With Adam Henrique sidelined and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins seeing more time on the wing, Dickinson could slot into the bottom six and give the Oilers a dependable center who can kill penalties, win draws, and chip in offensively. He’s not a headline-grabber, but he’s a glue guy-and every contender needs one.
Right Wing: Alex Tuch
Now, if the Oilers want to swing big, Alex Tuch is the home-run swing. The only catch?
He might not be available-yet. The Buffalo Sabres are currently in a playoff spot, and Tuch has been a key part of their push.
But he’s also on an expiring deal, and with a $4.75 million cap hit, he’s a bargain for what he brings.
Tuch has consistently hit the 22-goal mark since 2022-23 and plays a heavy, north-south game that would fit right in with Edmonton’s high-octane offense. He’s tough to knock off the puck, can play up and down the lineup, and has emerged as a leader on a young Sabres team. If Buffalo decides it can’t afford to re-sign him-or if they slip out of the playoff picture-he instantly becomes one of the most valuable rentals on the market.
For Edmonton, adding a right-shot winger with size, scoring touch, and playoff grit would be a dream scenario. But it’ll take a serious offer to pry him loose.
So… Who’s the Best Fit?
All three players bring something different to the table, and you can make a compelling case for each. But if the Oilers are looking for the best all-around fit-someone who can slide in seamlessly, elevate the team’s playoff ceiling, and bring a little edge-it’s Jake DeBrusk.
He’s not a center, but that’s okay. The Oilers are strong enough down the middle, especially if Henrique returns soon and Jack Roslovic continues to hold steady on the third line.
Mattias Janmark can step in at center if needed, giving the team some flexibility. What they need now is a winger who can play with pace, finish chances, and throw his weight around when the game tightens up in the postseason.
DeBrusk checks all those boxes-and then some. He’s been through playoff wars, he knows how to play with elite talent, and he’s the type of player who can change a series with one shift. If Edmonton wants to go deep this spring, adding a guy like DeBrusk could be the difference between another early exit and a real shot at the Cup.
Bottom line: the clock’s ticking, and the contenders are circling. If the Oilers want to make their move, now’s the time to pick up the phone and get in the game.