The Edmonton Oilers could have a difficult decision approaching with Jake Walman. Once viewed as an important piece of their defensive core, the 30-year-old has struggled to establish himself under head coach Mike Babcock, raising questions about his long-term future in Edmonton.
Walman has been a healthy scratch multiple times this season, with his offensive instincts and puck-moving abilities seemingly at odds with the defensive structure Babcock wants to establish. Through his first 11 games, Walman recorded just one assist while averaging 14:15 of ice time. However, Walman remains a capable NHL defenceman. During the 2024-25 season, he recorded 40 points in 65 games between San Jose and Edmonton, demonstrating his ability to contribute offensively.
The bigger obstacle is his contract. Walman’s seven-year, $49 million extension carries a $7 million annual cap hit through 2032-33, along with a full no-movement clause through 2029-30. Any trade would require his approval, but three teams could potentially offer him a fresh start.
Utah Mammoth
Utah could be an intriguing destination for Walman, particularly if management wants another experienced left-handed defenceman capable of moving the puck and supporting its young offensive core. Walman’s skating and transition abilities could complement Utah’s faster offensive approach. He could provide secondary offence from the blue line while helping the Mammoth establish more consistent breakouts.
However, committing $7 million annually to a defenceman approaching his mid-30s would be a significant gamble.
Potential trade: Utah receives Walman and a 2028 third-round pick. Edmonton receives a 2027 fifth-round pick.
This hypothetical deal prioritizes cap flexibility for Edmonton, although Utah could demand considerably more compensation for assuming the contract.
Toronto Maple Leafs
Toronto might offer Walman the most natural fit from a playing-style perspective. The Maple Leafs have been searching for additional puck-moving ability on defence, with general manager John Chayka previously identifying mobility and offensive contributions from the blue line as priorities. Walman was even identified as a potential Toronto target by Daily Faceoff earlier this year.
Walman is also a Toronto native, potentially making a return home appealing. His skating, powerful shot and ability to join the rush address several of Toronto’s needs. Nevertheless, the Maple Leafs would have to determine whether his offensive upside justifies the considerable financial commitment.
Potential trade: Toronto receives Walman with Edmonton retaining $1 million annually. Edmonton receives a 2027 third-round pick.
Retaining salary for seven seasons would be costly for Edmonton, making this scenario difficult unless Toronto offered meaningful value in return.
Philadelphia Flyers
Philadelphia could represent another opportunity, especially with the Flyers actively exploring defensive upgrades. The Flyers have been linked to Zach Whitecloud and Simon Edvinsson, demonstrating their interest in strengthening the blue line. Daily Faceoff+1 Walman would offer a different option: an established left-handed defenceman with offensive upside.
His ability to move the puck could benefit Philadelphia’s younger forwards, while his playoff experience would provide another veteran presence. However, the Flyers are building around a younger core, and taking on Walman’s contract could complicate their long-term plans.
Potential trade: Philadelphia receives Walman and Edmonton’s 2027 second-round pick. Edmonton receives a 2027 fourth-round pick.
The Flyers would gain an experienced defender and a valuable draft asset, while Edmonton would create significant cap flexibility.
Which Team Makes the Most Sense?
Toronto appears to be the strongest hockey fit, given its documented interest in puck-moving defencemen and Walman’s hometown connection. However, Philadelphia could be the more practical destination if Edmonton is willing to attach draft compensation rather than retain salary.
For the Oilers, moving Walman would be about more than escaping a contract. It would create the financial flexibility to acquire a defenceman better suited to Babcock’s system.
None of these proposals represents a reported negotiation. With seven years remaining on Walman’s deal, finding a willing trade partner will be difficult, regardless of his talent.
Next: Connor Hellebuyck Had One Chance to Face Winnipeg. He Chose Not To
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