6 Forward Names That Remain Linked to the Oilers’ Offseason

Edmonton’s offseason has been dominated by headlines about the coaching change and a crowded goaltending picture, but there is still work to be done, especially at forward, where the Oilers are rumored to be looking for one more addition. A legitimate top-six option would be the priority. But is that player available?

Here are six names that continue to surface in trade and free-agency chatter around the Oilers.

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1. Alex DeBrincat, Detroit Red Wings

Alex DeBrincat is a legitimate top-line player who can produce with at the same pace as elite stars. He’s the Red Wings best and most proven forward, but Detroit is facing a situation where the team might be moving on, assuming they’re headed towards a retool after the Dylan Larkin mess sorts itself out.

DeBrincat is entering the final year of his deal, which will put pressure on Steve Yzerman to either trade him and recoup assets or hope he re-signs. Edmonton would be happy to take on that final season. The Oilers don’t have enough cap space to take on his $7.875 million cap hit right now, but if they can send back something, DeBrincat would be an ideal target.

He’s still only 28 years old and posted 41 goals and 85 points in 82 games played last season.

2. Jake DeBrusk, Vancouver Canucks

Jake DeBrusk has been linked to the Oilers for years. He’s an Edmonton-born NHLer, whose father still works with the team in a broadcast capacity. At just 29, his 23 goals and 42 points would fit in nicely. His $5.5 million cap hit would fit in even better.

DeBrusk could be on the move as Vancouver leans into a rebuild, and an Edmonton reunion makes sense. If the Oilers are looking for a second-unit power play, DeBrusk is a great fit as a net-front guy with good hands.

3. Owen Tippett, Philadelphia Flyers

At just 27 years of age, Owen Tippett might be the cleanest stylistic fit on this entire list. He scored 28 goals and 23 assists last season and while his $6.2 million cap hit is a touch high for the Oilers, if the Philadelphia Flyers are forced to make a move because they land Leo Carlsson via an offer sheet, salary retention or taking back a little money might be possible.

He’s developed into a consistent goal-scorer with a dangerous shot and the kind of speed that would slot naturally into Edmonton’s top six, all while entering the prime of his career. Other teams will be interested if Philadelphia looks to make a move.

4. Rickard Rakell, Pittsburgh Penguins

Edmonton’s interest in Rickard Rakell shouldn’t surprise anyone. He’s a bit older than the rest of the list (33), but he’s still productive. He scored 24 goals and 24 assists in 2025-26, and has an affordable $5 million cap hit. With two years left on his deal, the issue is asking price. The Penguins have reportedly been making Rakell available, but they want a big return.

5. Bryan Rust, Pittsburgh Penguins

Also with the Penguins, Oilers insider Jason Gregor has flagged Bryan Rust as a name flying under the radar. He’s a proven, consistent 20-goal scorer, now 34, with two years remaining on his deal at a $5.125 million cap hit. The Athletic’s Josh Yohe has reported that Penguins GM Kyle Dubas doesn’t want to trade Rust, but that hasn’t stopped contending teams from checking in on him for years — a pattern that shows no sign of stopping.

6. Vladimir Tarasenko, UFA

The one name to watch that doesn’t require a trade to acquire him is Vladimir Tarasenko. Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman recently floated the UFA as a potential fit. Edmonton was reportedly interested in Claude Giroux, but with his decision to return to Ottawa, he is no longer viewed as an option. Tarasenko’s name has started to gain traction as a value add for a team built to win now.

Next: NHL Trade Talk Recap: Penguins, Canucks, Oilers & Jets Won’t Move Hellebuyck