Oilers Are Being Linked To Several Potential Deadline Additions

With the trade deadline approaching, the Edmonton Oilers are once again expected to be active. Insiders believe GM Stan Bowman is searching for another meaningful upgrade — and the list of potential targets is starting to grow.

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According to David Pagnotta, Edmonton’s focus could be on finding an “Ekholm Junior” type of defender. Other insiders wonder if a forward, specifically a third-line center, is Bowman’s priority. If the team moves Ryan Nugent-Hopkins back to the third line, the Oilers might be looking for a top-line winger.

In other words, there are options.

“I still hold firm in my belief that they’re looking for another Mattias Ekholm-esque… physical presence, defensive-minded stalwart on the back end,” Pagnotta said. He also said the Vancouver Canucks spoke with Edmonton about Evander Kane, and there’s no financial fit there.

The Columbus Blue Jackets could become a major factor if they slide further out of contention. Pierre LeBrun reported that Columbus is already receiving calls on several pending UFAs, including Boone Jenner, Charlie Coyle, Mason Marchment, and Erik Gudbranson. Edmonton has been linked to those conversations.

“If they determine… they can’t stay in the race, the Blue Jackets could be a real factor,” LeBrun noted.

Pagnotta added that Jenner, in particular, could make sense for Edmonton if Columbus can’t get an extension done. “I could certainly see Jenner being a target for Edmonton,” he said.

Mangiapane May Not Be Part Of Any Trade

The Oilers are looking to trade Andrew Mangiapane, though his value has dipped after a difficult season. They’d like to use his cap hit to spend elsewhere. LeBrun said some teams have even wondered if Edmonton would need to attach a sweetener just to move him.

“The problem is it’s been such a tough season for him,” LeBrun explained.

Still, Edmonton has reportedly stayed engaged in talks.

“To some degree, it’s surprising he hasn’t been traded yet… the Oilers are having ongoing conversations,” LeBrun added.

That means the Oilers might have to figure out a way to add without Mangiapane being part of the equation.

Could Toronto’s Chaos Help Edmonton?

Another intriguing name is Leafs forward Bobby McMann. Several insiders believe he’d generate significant interest if Toronto makes him available, with Edmonton already among the teams mentioned.

As the market develops, the Oilers appear poised to strike — whether it’s a rugged defenseman, a playoff-style center, or a sneaky scoring winger. The deadline chessboard is getting crowded.

Next: Oilers or Maple Leafs?: Right Advice Could Change McMann’s Career