The Edmonton Oilers could have an opportunity to address their need for a legitimate top-six right-shot winger, particularly if the New York Rangers’ goaltending concerns create a market for Tristan Jarry. With the Rangers evaluating goaltending options and the Washington Capitals potentially facing difficult decisions if their season goes sideways, could Edmonton capitalize on both situations to acquire Tom Wilson?
It’s an ambitious hypothetical involving three teams and two separate trades. While there’s no indication these deals are being discussed, the potential benefits make for an intriguing scenario.
The Proposed Trades
Trade 1: Edmonton Oilers and New York Rangers
Oilers receive: 2027 fifth-round pick
Rangers receive: Tristan Jarry ($5.375 million)
Trade 2: Edmonton Oilers and Washington Capitals
Oilers receive: Tom Wilson ($6.5 million)
Capitals receive: Isaac Howard, Josh Samanski, 2028 first-round pick
Rangers Scouting Potential Goaltending Options
New York’s goaltending situation has become increasingly concerning following Igor Shesterkin’s season-ending injury and Joonas Korpisalo’s absence. On the October 15 edition of 32 Thoughts, Elliotte Friedman discussed how Rangers general manager Chris Drury is evaluating the goaltending market.
Friedman compared Drury’s approach to Santa Claus making a list and checking it twice, suggesting the Rangers intend to carefully assess their options. He also revealed that Rangers goaltending scout Scott Clemmensen attended the Buffalo Sabres’ game against the Montreal Canadiens, potentially to evaluate Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen. The scouting development suggests New York is doing its homework on possible additions.
Although Jarry hasn’t been specifically linked to the Rangers, Edmonton could become a team worth monitoring if New York expands its search. Jarry offers NHL experience and could provide stability while the Rangers navigate their injuries. Edmonton, meanwhile, could potentially move his $5.375 million cap hit for a late-round pick.
The biggest complication remains timing. New York may need help before Edmonton is comfortable moving Jarry, particularly with Frederik Andersen still recovering.
Why Edmonton Would Target Tom Wilson
Wilson would give the Oilers a physical, experienced right-shot winger capable of playing alongside Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl. His combination of scoring, size and playoff experience would provide Edmonton with another dimension in its top six.
Moving Jarry’s $5.375 million contract would offset most of Wilson’s $6.54 million cap hit. Including Howard and Samanski in the outgoing package would further reduce Edmonton’s commitments, although a replacement goaltender would still need to be accounted for.
The appeal is straightforward: Edmonton would sacrifice future assets to strengthen its immediate Stanley Cup chances.
Why Washington Could Consider the Deal
Wilson’s name has surfaced in trade speculation before. In June 2023, former NHL defenceman Jason York discussed a potential deal that would send Wilson to the Ottawa Senators. However, the speculation was challenged, with Washington’s management expressing its desire to retain Wilson. The Capitals subsequently signed Wilson through 2031, demonstrating his importance to the organization.
If Washington struggles and falls out of playoff contention, a package involving Howard, Samanski and a 2028 first-round pick could offer younger assets for the future. Howard brings offensive upside, while Samanski provides another developing forward. However, Washington would need considerable motivation to move Wilson, particularly given his leadership role, long-term contract and modified no-trade protection.
Could All Three Teams Benefit?
The Rangers would acquire an experienced goaltender, Washington would receive younger assets and Edmonton would add a proven power forward. The challenge is making the timing work. New York’s scouting activity suggests the Rangers are exploring their options, but Edmonton must first establish whether it can afford to move Jarry.
Washington would also need to become willing to entertain offers for Wilson, something that remains entirely speculative. It’s a scenario requiring several developments to align, but if they do, Edmonton could turn its goaltending surplus into a significant top-six upgrade.
Next: Oilers’ Owen Michaels Is Winning Trust, But the Underlying Numbers Tell a Different Story
Discover more from NHL Trade Talk
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
More News
