The Edmonton Oilers will be looking to get back to the Stanley Cup Final this upcoming season. The club hopes that the third time is the charm after dropping back-to-back Finals losses against the Florida Panthers.
However, the Oilers went through a notable roster churn. As such, some questions remain as the club looks to compete in the Western Conference. While still supremely talented, the Oilers may need to continue tweaking their lineup to ensure a championship this season.
With that in mind, here’s a look at the Oilers’ top three trade candidates for the 2025-26 season.
Top 3 Oilers Trade Candidates in 2025-26
Kasperi Kapanen
Kasperi Kapanen was somewhat of a revelation for the Oilers last season. He joined the club as a depth piece and carved a role out for himself in the lineup. He scored a huge goal in the postseason to give the Oilers a series win over the Vegas Golden Knights.
However, he’s on borrowed time. Kapanen is on a one-year $1.3 million deal. If he struggles this season, there’s reason to believe the Oilers could move him to free up cap space and a roster spot. Otherwise, Kapanen may hit the waiver wire at some point this season.
Vasily Podkolzin
The Oilers have high expectations for Vasily Podkolzin this season. He seems poised for a breakout season. He’s slated to play on the same line as Leon Draisaitl. Playing with an all-world center could give Podkolzin the opportunity to break the 20-goal mark and earn a more meaningful role.
But then again, there’s a chance he may fail to live up to expectations. If he struggles to do so, the Oilers could be looking to move him sooner rather than later. With no trade protection and a $1 million cap hit, he could be enticing to another club.
He’s 24 and an RFA. So, Podkolzin could be amenable to a rebuilding club looking to stock up on younger depth pieces.
Stuart Skinner
Including Stuart Skinner on this list is a surprise to no one. He’s been the whipping boy for the Oilers this summer. While he’s been a serviceable goaltender for Edmonton, he’ll be the first piece to go if the club can land a bona fide starting goalie.
The Oilers may have to choose between Skinner and Calvin Pickard. But it’s easier to fathom Pickard remaining on the club as the backup rather than Skinner riding the bench.
Oilers in Holding Pattern until McDavid Extension Done
It seems that everything the Edmonton Oilers do this season will depend on Connor McDavid’s contract extension.
Thus far, the club is heading into training camp, and no such extension is in place. In that case, GM Stan Bowman could be holding his breath until a deal is in place. However, he may not be able to hold his breath for very long.
If the Oilers get off to an unimpressive start, he could face pressure to make moves. As such, the team’s first month or so will dictate the path forward regardless of whether McDavid is extended or not.
This season is potentially the last chance the Oilers will have to win with McDavid in the fold.
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