In today’s NHL Trade Talk Recap (August 21, 2026), there’s plenty to talk about around the NHL, from the Jets trying to bounce back to the Oilers looking for more from their young players. Add in a controversial prospect ranking that left Matt Savoie off the list, and there’s no shortage of storylines worth watching.

Three Big Questions Facing the Jets This Season

The Winnipeg Jets are coming off a disappointing season after winning the Presidents’ Trophy the year before. Luca Pampena projects them to finish fifth in the Central Division with 90 points, but they’ll need more help from their young forwards and better defensive play to get back into the playoffs.

The Jets may go as far as Connor Hellebuyck takes them. If he stays healthy and returns to his best, Winnipeg could stay in the wild-card mix. But the team can’t ignore its other problems, including an older roster, limited speed, and the number of dangerous chances they gave up last season.

Three Things to Watch From the Winnipeg Jets This Season

Could Vasily Podkolzin Be the Oilers’ Breakout Player?

The Oilers need someone outside their top four to start creating more offence, and Vasily Podkolzin could be that player. Bob Stauffer believes he’s ready for a breakout season, with a chance to play in the top six and contribute on both special-teams units.

Podkolzin gives the Oilers some energy and toughness, and he isn’t afraid to put in the work. The new coaching staff may give him a bigger role, and if he can become a reliable 20-goal scorer and add another 20 or 30 assists, that $2.95-million contract could look very good for Edmonton.

Fans React to Oilers Host Predicting Edmonton’s Next Breakout Star

Matt Savoie’s Ranking Snub Is Hard to Explain

Corey Pronman’s latest under-23 rankings have sparked plenty of debate, and recency bias seems to be a big reason why. Sam O’Reilly jumped to No. 40 after a huge junior season, while Ike Howard was left off despite winning the Hobey Baker and producing in the AHL and NHL. Zach Benson also dropped despite having a strong season.

The most confusing part was seeing Matt Savoie left off completely. He played his way into a regular role, saw time on the penalty kill, eventually joined McDavid’s line, and finished with 18 goals and 37 points. With the way he came on late in the year, he looked like one of Edmonton’s most promising young players, so leaving him off feels like a major oversight.

Chaos in Pronman’s U23 List — Stunning Drops, Wild Snubs, and Furious Fanbases

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