Insider Expects Two Oilers to Hit the Trade Block This Week

With key players nearing a return from injury, the Edmonton Oilers are facing a roster crunch that could lead to trades in the coming week.

Defenseman Alec Regula was placed on injured reserve Sunday, but the Oilers are expecting several regulars — including Zach Hyman, Jake Walman, and Mattias Janmark — back soon. Once everyone is healthy, Edmonton will need to clear space to remain compliant with the NHL’s 23-man roster limit.

According to insider Frank Seravalli, the Oilers are already weighing their options. Two names to watch closely: Ty Emberson and Mattias Janmark.

Why These Two Players on the Trade Block for the Oilers?

Emberson, 25, joined the Oilers last year in the deal that sent Cody Ceci to San Jose. Though he played 76 regular-season games and featured in the playoffs, he’s slipped down the depth chart. With Regula pushing for ice time, Emberson could be the odd man out — and a trade seems possible if the Oilers see value.

There is a chance that Troy Stecher is also considered, however the Oilers seem to like him and in Walman’s absence, Stecher has been playing with Darnell Nurse. Edmonton sees Stecher as potentially more versatile and his contract is more cap friendly.

Janmark, meanwhile, remains a trusted veteran, but his cap hit and roster spot could make him expendable. The 32-year-old has a limited no-trade clause, though Edmonton would reportedly be open to moving him “in the right deal.”

Expect movement soon as roster decisions tighten. There is some thought that the Oilers will demote Ike Howard to the AHL because he is waiver exempt. That may eliminate the need to trade two players in the immediate future.

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