Edmonton Oilers
Oilers Reading Between the Lines as a Big 3C Target Emerges
Based on Bob Stauffer’s comments, the Oilers may target a big third-line centre from a team slipping out of playoff contention.
When Bob Stauffer speaks, it’s rarely accidental — and it’s almost never direct. That’s why a recent comment hinting at a “big third-line right-shot centre on a team that thinks they might still be in it, but doesn’t think they will be” immediately set off speculation around the league. If you’re the Edmonton Oilers, that description really points to one kind of player they might want to get before the deadline.
They aren’t looking for a big scorer or someone famous. They need someone who fits the team, knows their role, and can help in the playoffs.
The Oilers have been trying to get their bottom six players sorted out for years. They have incredible talent that is scoring a lot. The next thing is to hold onto leads, win important face-offs, and handle tough playoff minutes when the games get close. A big, right-handed third-line center is perfect for that – mainly if he’s good at killing penalties, winning face-offs, and playing a simple, direct game.
Three names stand out as logical options.
Charlie Coyle: The Big-Body, Matchup-Driven Centre
Charlie Coyle fits Stauffer’s description almost perfectly. A big, right-shot centre who can play tough minutes, Coyle has built a reputation as a reliable matchup player capable of handling defensive assignments without sacrificing offensive awareness.
Coyle isn’t a burner, but he protects pucks well, wins battles down low, and can play against quality competition. This becomes even more helpful in the playoffs, where Edmonton sometimes has a hard time when games get slower and there’s less space to move.
For the Oilers, it’s pretty simple: Coyle could fit into a real third-line spot and let Edmonton use three lines without asking too much from their less experienced players. He’s not just an extra piece – he’s important for the team’s structure.
The big question is always how much he’ll cost and how it affects their budget.
Nic Roy: Size, Defensive Reliability, and Playoff DNA
Another intriguing option is Nic Roy, a centre who brings size, reach, and strong defensive instincts. Roy has quietly developed into a dependable bottom-six centre who can handle penalty-killing duties and heavy forechecking assignments.
Roy’s a solid player because he’s reliable. He plays it safe, stays in position, and you can count on him when the game’s on the line. For a team that already has star players, getting a center who doesn’t hog the puck can be a real plus.
If the Toronto Maple Leafs continue to lose, other teams will definitely be after Roy. He wouldn’t change Edmonton’s style of play; he’d just make them better at what they already do.
Nick Bjugstad: A Familiar Fit and a Sensible Reunion
Sometimes the simplest answer is the most obvious one. A reunion with Nick Bjugstad would make a lot of sense for both sides.
Bjugstad already gets how things work in Edmonton – the team, the system, and what they expect from players. Last time he was here, he gave the Oilers exactly what they needed: a big guy playing center, solid defense, and someone who could play different positions.
At the deadline, it’s good to go with someone you know. Bjugstad won’t need much time to adjust, and the Oilers already know he can play in the playoffs. He might not be the most exciting player but he’s a solid choice.
What This Tells Us About Edmonton’s Deadline Plan
The key takeaway from Stauffer’s comment isn’t just the player type — it’s the timing and intent. Edmonton isn’t chasing upside. They’re chasing certainty.
Getting a big, right-handed center for the third line shows they trust their main players. Plus, they know why past playoff runs failed. They want someone who can handle the tough games and win the close battles when things get rough.
Guys like Coyle (good matchups), Roy (reliable defense), or Bjugstad (they know him) – the Oilers obviously want someone solid, not flashy.
Usually, when Bob Stauffer starts talking like this, it means something’s already in the works.
Next: Stocking Stuffer Trades For Not-Too-Greedy NHL Contenders
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