Homecoming Angle Emerges as Oilers Frontrunner for Canucks Forward

The Edmonton Oilers are expected to be active this offseason after a disappointing 2025–26 campaign that ended with a surprising first-round playoff exit at the hands of the Anaheim Ducks. Despite having elite stars in Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, the team’s need for secondary scoring has become increasingly clear, particularly on the wing.

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One name emerging as a potential target is Vancouver Canucks forward Jake DeBrusk, who has been linked to Edmonton in the past and might see the Oilers as a possible preferred destination if he were to become available. In a recent trade-board discussion, Daily Hive’s Trevor Beggs noted that Edmonton would likely rank near the top of DeBrusk’s list, pointing to both personal and organizational connections.

Beggs wrote, “If DeBrusk had his choice of destination (which, theoretically, he does with a full no-move clause), you’d think the Edmonton Oilers would be near the top of his list.” He adds, “Edmonton could clearly use another top-six winger.”

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He cites DeBrusk’s ties to the city — including being born there and having family connections to the organization. His father, Louie DeBrusk, is a color analyst in the city and a former Oiler himself.

We wrote yesterday that Nick Kypreos hinted that DeBrusk could be moved, suggesting the fit hasn’t been ideal in Vancouver and that DeBrusk wasn’t signed to be the team’s leading goal scorer. Perhaps Vancouver aims to sell now that they are rebuilding and are hoping a team will pay a solid price to acquire him.

Debrusk scored 23 goals and 42 points in 81 games during the 2025–26 season with Vancouver. That followed a 28-goal, 48-point campaign the year prior.

Beyond production, his $5.5 million cap hit through 2030–31 adds long-term stability at a fair price given today’s salary cap. His extensive playoff résumé, including 86 postseason games with the Boston Bruins and 27 career playoff goals, also aligns with Edmonton’s win-now timeline.

For an Oilers team looking to upgrade on a team that took a step backward last season, a player with DeBrusk’s scoring touch, playoff experience, and local ties could represent a smart fit. And, because he has a no-move clause, the Canucks either need to wait until it becomes a 15-team no-trade next season, or send him where he wants to go.

Next: NHL Trade Talk Recap: Oilers Jersey, Canadiens & Golden Knights