Oilers Not Finished After Jarry Trade as Deadline Picture Comes Into Focus

The Edmonton Oilers’ decision to shake up their crease by acquiring Tristan Jarry from the Pittsburgh Penguins was never meant to be a standalone move. It was a statement — one that signaled general manager Stan Bowman is willing to act decisively, but also creatively, as the Oilers push toward another deep playoff run.

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Bowman’s message since arriving in Edmonton has been consistent: the Oilers won’t make moves for the sake of noise, but they also won’t sit idle if opportunities arise. The Jarry trade checked two important boxes — changing the dynamic in goal and proving that Edmonton can move significant contracts while staying cap-compliant. That matters because any further additions between now and the deadline will follow the same formula: money in, money out.

And based on the roster makeup and remaining needs, there are still areas Bowman is almost certainly exploring.

Alex Tuch: A True Difference-Maker Up Front

If the Oilers want to make a big move, Alex Tuch seems like a good fit for both the team and what they need right now.

Tuch is big, fast, and knows how to score in the playoffs – things Edmonton really wants for postseason hockey. He can play on the top lines, create scoring chances, and bring some toughness when games get tougher in April and May. Getting him won’t be easy, but Bowman has already shown he’s ready to trade good players to make the team better.

Of course, the details are important. A trade for Tuch would mean Edmonton needs to free up some salary or get the Sabres to retain, but they’ve done that before. If the Oilers believe this is their best shot at winning it all, Tuch would be a smart, even if risky, pickup.

Mario Ferraro: Defensive Insurance if San Jose Sells

The Oilers are still checking out their options for defensemen, especially as the trade deadline gets closer and teams decide to sell. If San Jose is clearly out of playoff contention, Mario Ferraro could be someone to keep an eye on.

Ferraro isn’t a super offensive defenseman, but he’s reliable, plays with an edge, and can handle tough situations. He’d help make Edmonton’s defense more steady when they need to defend and protect a lead. Since Brett Kulak is already gone, getting another solid defenseman with experience would give the Oilers more choices for the playoffs.

The timing depends on the money, but Ferraro is the kind of defenseman Bowman usually likes.

The Backup Goalie Question Isn’t Settled

Even though Jarry’s the main goalie now, I doubt the Oilers will just sit back.

Calvin Pickard’s been below average, hence Edmonton probably wants someone more reliable for the playoffs. They could swap Pickard for a veteran like Alex Lyon if Buffalo lets him go. Lyon’s proven he can handle NHL time and offer some steadiness.

Or, another option could be a goalie who just started playing after being off for a few years. They could let Laurent Brossoit keep getting back in shape in the AHL and see if he can step up. Bowman might want to see how he performs in the AHL for the Blackhawks before pulling the trigger on a move. But any move involving Brossoit would require retention, much like Tuch.

Money In, Money Out — And That Changes Everything

The most important takeaway from the Jarry deal isn’t just the player acquired — it’s the precedent set. Edmonton proved it can shuffle meaningful contracts, reshape its roster, and remain cap-compliant. That flexibility opens doors.

Bowman won’t chase upgrades for optics. But if the right opportunity presents itself — whether it’s a top-six winger, a steady defenceman, or another crease adjustment — the Oilers have shown they’re willing and able to act.

The Jarry trade wasn’t the end of Edmonton’s deadline story. It was the beginning.

Next: Trade Grades: Oilers Land Tristan Jarry and Spencer Stastney