The Oilers are expected to be in the market for top-nine scoring and special-teams help during the 2026-27 season, and that search could send them back to familiar territory. A handful of former Edmonton players fit the kind of midseason or deadline swing the team may need, especially if those clubs slide out of contention.
Ryan McLeod stands out as the most complete fit on the list. Since being dealt to the Buffalo Sabres, he has grown into a productive two-way forward and put up 54 points last season.
He would give Edmonton more speed, help on the penalty kill and extra centre depth right away. He is under contract through 2028-29 at $5 million per season, so he would be more than a one-year fix.
McLeod could handle third-line centre duties, kill penalties and move up into the top six if injuries hit. Buffalo would ask for a meaningful return, but his age and versatility make him a strong long-term target.
Warren Foegele may be the easiest reunion to picture. The 30-year-old is entering the last season of a deal with a $3.5 million cap hit, and if the Ottawa Senators fall out of the race, he could be available before the 2027 Trade Deadline.
During his three seasons in Edmonton, he scored 45 goals and totaled 95 points in 231 games. His game is built on speed, forechecking and the ability to slide around the top nine.
Because his contract is expiring, the price should be lighter than McLeod’s, though Edmonton might need Ottawa to keep some salary.
Connor Brown is another former Oiler who could make sense if Edmonton wants a player it already knows can handle the grind. Brown became a useful playoff performer in his second season with the Oilers, bringing secondary scoring, strong penalty killing and constant puck pressure.
Last season with the New Jersey Devils, he had 18 goals and 43 points. He is signed through 2028-29 at $3 million per year, which means Edmonton would have to buy into the idea that he is more than a short-term piece.
His defensive trust and familiarity with the core would help, but the extra three seasons could give the Oilers pause, especially since he turns 33 during the season.
Corey Perry would be the affordable veteran option. The 41-year-old still produced 17 goals and 37 points in 72 games split between Los Angeles and Tampa Bay last season, showing there is still offense left in his game.
He is back with the Kings on a one-year deal worth $1 million, so if Los Angeles slips out of contention, Edmonton could go after him without much cap stress. Perry had 19 goals in his final regular season with the Oilers, then added 10 goals and 14 points in 22 playoff games.
His work around the crease, physical edge and knack for getting under opponents’ skin would boost the bottom six and the second power-play unit. He would not solve Edmonton’s speed issue, but he would bring a level of postseason experience that is hard to find.
Viktor Arvidsson rounds out the group. His first run in Edmonton was uneven, but he can still score in a top-nine role.
After rebuilding his value in Boston, he signed a two-year, $10 million contract with the Detroit Red Wings. If Detroit struggles, he could become a right-shot winger who adds shooting, forechecking and power-play help.
His $5 million cap hit would be tough for Edmonton to fit without retention, but he would offer more offense than most deadline rentals.
Among the group, Foegele looks like the most realistic target. McLeod brings the best blend of speed and special-teams value. Perry may be the cheapest path, and he already showed he could elevate his game in an Edmonton playoff run.
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