Oilers Trade Proposal Lands Steven Stamkos: Would You Do It?

The Edmonton Oilers have spent the past several seasons doing everything possible to maximize their Stanley Cup window around Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. After coming within reach of a championship, it’s clear the organization isn’t afraid to sacrifice future assets if it means improving its chances in the present.

If the Nashville Predators decide to continue getting younger, one intriguing target for Edmonton could be Steven Stamkos.

Edmonton Oilers receive:

• Steven Stamkos ($2 million retained)

Nashville Predators receive:

• Trent Frederic
• Beau Akey
• Quinn Hutson
• 2028 first-round pick
• 2028 third-round pick (via St. Louis)

It’s a significant package, but one that could make sense for both franchises depending on where they see themselves over the next few seasons.

Why the Oilers Would Make the Deal

Even at 36 years old, Stamkos remains one of the NHL’s most dangerous goal scorers.

Adding him would immediately give Edmonton another elite shooting threat capable of playing alongside either McDavid or Draisaitl. While the Oilers already possess one of hockey’s most explosive offenses, Stamkos would provide another proven finisher who can capitalize on the playmaking abilities of Edmonton’s star centers.

His addition would also make an already dangerous power play even more difficult to defend. Opponents would have to account for McDavid’s creativity, Draisaitl’s one-timer, Evan Bouchard’s point shot and Zach Hyman’s net-front presence, while Stamkos would add another elite release from either circle.

The price is substantial, but Edmonton avoids moving premier prospects like Isaac Howard and Matt Savoie while still making an aggressive push to win now.

Why Nashville Could Consider It

If the Predators determine they aren’t legitimate Stanley Cup contenders over the next two seasons, this proposal gives them multiple assets that fit a younger timeline.

The centerpiece is Beau Akey, one of Edmonton’s top defensive prospects with legitimate top-four potential. Quinn Hutson provides another skilled forward prospect who has shown offensive upside at the AHL level, while the 2028 first-round pick gives Nashville another premium future asset.

Frederic would immediately add toughness and versatility to the NHL roster, assuming he agrees to waive his no-movement clause. His physical style aligns with the identity Chris MacFarland has tried to build since taking over hockey operations.

Comparable Trades Show the Cost

History suggests contenders often pay a premium for established veterans.

When the Toronto Maple Leafs acquired Ryan O’Reilly and Noel Acciari in 2023, they parted with a first-round pick, second-round pick, third-round pick and multiple players in a three-team trade that also involved salary retention. The Vegas Golden Knights similarly acquired Mark Stone by trading top prospect Erik Brännström, Oscar Lindberg and a second-round pick before signing him long term.

While Stamkos is older than both O’Reilly and Stone were at the time of those deals, Nashville retaining $2 million significantly increases his value to a cap-strapped contender like Edmonton.

Whether the Predators would ultimately move one of the most respected leaders in franchise history remains uncertain. However, if Nashville shifts its focus toward the future, this proposal gives them a first-round pick, two promising prospects and an NHL-ready forward while allowing the Oilers to make one final blockbuster push for the Stanley Cup.

Next: Oilers Trade Proposal Lands Kirill Marchenko: Would You Do It?