The Edmonton Oilers have spent the past several seasons searching for the ideal top-six winger to complement Connor McDavid. While internal options such as Matthew Savoie continue to generate excitement, acquiring a proven scorer in his prime remains the quickest path toward strengthening an already dangerous lineup.
One player who checks nearly every box is Philadelphia Flyers forward Owen Tippett.
With the Flyers continuing to build around a young core, it’s unlikely general manager Daniel Brière is actively shopping Tippett. However, if Philadelphia ever decides to maximize his value, the Oilers could have a trade package worth discussing.
The Trade Proposal
Edmonton Oilers receive:
- Owen Tippett
Philadelphia Flyers receive:
- Trent Frederic
- Isaac Howard
- Beau Akey
- 2028 First-Round Pick
At first glance, it’s the type of blockbuster that benefits both organizations for different reasons.
Why the Oilers Make the Deal
Edmonton’s championship window is wide open.
McDavid and Leon Draisaitl are in the middle of their primes, and the Oilers have made it clear they are willing to sacrifice future assets if it improves their chances of winning the Stanley Cup. Tippett fits that philosophy perfectly.
The 27-year-old has developed into one of the NHL’s better power wingers thanks to his combination of elite skating, a heavy shot, and an attacking mindset. Unlike many skilled forwards who prefer to distribute the puck, Tippett is a volume shooter who isn’t afraid to create offense himself. That’s exactly the type of player who could thrive alongside McDavid.
Perhaps the biggest advantage for Edmonton is keeping Savoie out of the deal. While the Oilers surrender a significant package, they retain arguably their top forward prospect while adding an established top-line player under a long-term contract. Yes, giving up Isaac Howard, Beau Akey, Trent Frederic, and a first-round pick is a steep price. Howard has legitimate top-six upside, Akey projects as an NHL defenseman, Frederic has become a valuable bottom-six contributor, and first-round picks are always valuable.
But prospects remain projections. Tippett is already producing at the NHL level.
Why Philadelphia Might Listen
Trading Tippett would be a difficult decision. He’s entering the prime of his career, is signed long term, and remains an important piece of the Flyers’ young core. However, if Philadelphia believes adding multiple premium assets better positions the organization for long-term success, this proposal is at least worth considering. Howard projects as a potential top-six winger, Akey strengthens the blue-line pipeline, and a 2028 first-round pick adds another valuable future asset.
Frederic’s inclusion is primarily to make the money work. While he still has the potential to bounce back, his time in Edmonton has been disappointing, and his seven-year, $3.85 million contract has become a significant commitment. Philadelphia would essentially be taking on that contract to facilitate the deal, with the real value of the return centered around Howard, Akey, and the first-round pick.
Would You Do It?
Edmonton: Yes. The Oilers acquire the top-line right winger they’ve been searching for while also shedding a long-term contract that hasn’t worked out as hoped. Although Howard, Akey, and a first-round pick represent a significant price, adding a player of Tippett’s caliber is the type of move contenders should pursue.
Philadelphia: Probably not—but it’s worth discussing. Frederic’s contract isn’t an attractive asset, meaning the value of this proposal rests almost entirely on Howard, Akey, and the first-round pick. If the Flyers remain committed to building around Tippett, they’ll likely pass. But if they ever decide to cash in one of their biggest trade chips, this is the kind of package that would at least force Daniel Brière to think twice.
Next: Bedard Makes Pitch to Patrick Kane to Return to Blackhawks
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