The Edmonton Oilers find themselves in familiar territory-leaning heavily on their elite core to carry the load. With Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Evan Bouchard continuing to shoulder much of the responsibility, the team’s top-heavy structure remains a defining trait. But as the 2026 NHL trade deadline approaches, it’s clear that the front office is feeling the pressure to add more support-and fast.
A Summer That Missed the Mark
The Oilers came into the season hoping to deepen their roster, but some of those offseason bets haven’t panned out. Andrew Mangiapane, their marquee free-agent signing, is reportedly already being shopped.
And David Tomasek, a European addition who came in with some promise, has already had his contract terminated. That’s not exactly the kind of return you want from your summer spending spree.
Now, with the trade deadline looming, Edmonton’s focus has shifted. According to reports, the Oilers recently held their pro scouting meetings and are zeroing in on a top-nine forward. It’s a move that signals both urgency and intent-this team knows it can’t afford to waste another season of McDavid and Draisaitl’s prime.
Where the Lineup Stands
When the roster is healthy, the Oilers’ top nine forwards shake out like this:
- First Line: Ryan Nugent-Hopkins - Connor McDavid - Zach Hyman
- Second Line: Vasily Podkolzin - Leon Draisaitl - Kasperi Kapanen
- Third Line: Isaac Howard - Jack Roslovic - Matt Savoie
There’s talent here, no doubt. The top line continues to be one of the most productive in the league, and Kapanen has looked solid when healthy. But there are still questions.
Kapanen’s spot alongside Draisaitl feels a bit tenuous-he’s had flashes, but consistency has been an issue. Meanwhile, Roslovic, while capable at center, might be better suited on the wing. That opens the door for a potential upgrade down the middle on the third line, especially if the Oilers want to keep the rookie duo of Howard and Savoie buzzing on the flanks.
Every Season Counts
Here’s the reality: the Oilers don’t have the luxury of time. McDavid is on a short-term deal, and while he hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down, the clock is ticking.
Draisaitl isn’t getting younger either. Every playoff run matters, and the front office knows it.
Standing pat isn’t an option-not with the stakes this high.
What Could a Deal Look Like?
Given the Oilers’ cap situation, they’re likely limited to making just one significant move. And with the new CBA rules eliminating double-retention in trades, cap gymnastics are tougher than ever.
That means the most realistic targets are players on expiring contracts-rentals who can help now without tying up future flexibility. Think of a move similar to what Edmonton did with Trent Frederic: bring in a rental, see how it fits, and then make a decision in the offseason. Or perhaps a short-term deal with a manageable cap hit, like the one they swung for Jake Walman.
Either way, general manager Stan Bowman has shown he’s not afraid to shake things up. He’s already overhauled the goaltending situation this season, and last year brought multiple big changes. There’s no reason to think he’ll be sitting quietly at the deadline.
Bottom Line
The Oilers have the star power. What they need now is the depth to match.
With the trade deadline on the horizon and their core entering a critical phase, Edmonton is in “win now” mode. Expect them to be aggressive-and expect Bowman to be bold.