Edmonton Oilers

5 Potential Trade Partners for the Oilers in 2026–27

by
Vivek Kalia
August 18, 2026

The Edmonton Oilers will likely search for another top-nine forward during the 2026–27 season. Which players become available will depend on the standings, but several rebuilding or retooling teams could emerge as logical trade partners.

Vancouver Canucks

Vancouver’s rebuilding direction could create multiple opportunities. Filip Chytil is entering the final season of his contract, while Drew O’Connor could provide inexpensive bottom-six speed.

Chytil carries significant injury risk but has the versatility and offensive upside to become a buy-low target. The greatest complication would be convincing Vancouver to trade within the Pacific Division.

Pittsburgh Penguins

The Penguins remain one of the league’s most potential sellers. Rickard Rakell and Bryan Rust have both appeared in trade speculation as Pittsburgh attempts to get younger.

Rakell could provide Edmonton with a proven top-six scorer, while Rust would add speed, playoff experience and versatility. Both are under contract beyond this season, meaning they would provide more value than a traditional rental. Pittsburgh would likely demand a premium prospect or high draft pick for either winger.

Andrei Kuzmenko could also become a rental target if Pittsburgh falls out of contention. He signed a one-year contract and offers finishing ability, although his defensive limitations could concern Edmonton.

New York Rangers

The Rangers have already made major changes but may not be finished reshaping their roster. Alexis Lafrenière heard his name in trade speculation during New York’s disappointing season.

Lafrenière would be expensive to acquire, but his age, physicality and five-on-five scoring would make him a long-term fit beside Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl. Edmonton would need to move salary and include one of its best young players to make a deal realistic.

Detroit Red Wings

Detroit could become a major seller if its playoff drought continues. Alex DeBrincat is entering the final season of his contract after scoring 41 goals in 2025–26 and has appeared on early trade-candidate lists.

DeBrincat would provide the elite right-shot finisher Edmonton has been seeking, but his $7.875 million cap hit and acquisition cost would create obstacles. Former Oiler Viktor Arvidsson could become a less expensive alternative if Detroit changes direction.

Seattle Kraken

Seattle’s uncertain direction makes it another team to monitor. Shane Wright has been mentioned as a possible change-of-scenery candidate, while Jared McCann could become available if the Kraken prioritize younger players.

Wright would be a long-term investment, whereas McCann could immediately contribute in Edmonton’s top six. As with Vancouver, acquiring either player could require the Oilers to pay a divisional premium.

Pittsburgh appears to be Edmonton’s most natural trade partner because of its veteran options and organizational direction. Detroit, however, could offer the greatest prize if DeBrincat becomes available.