The Edmonton Oilers will likely search for another top-six forward during the 2026–27 season. However, general manager Stan Bowman should be cautious about moving premium assets for an ageing rental who may only spend a few months in Edmonton.
If the Oilers trade another significant package, it should be for a younger forward who can contribute beyond one playoff run. Alexis Lafrenière, Kent Johnson and Shane Wright would all carry different levels of cost and risk.
Alexis Lafrenière
Lafrenière would be the most established and expensive option. The 2020 first-overall pick tied his career high with 57 points last season, including a strong finish after Artemi Panarin was traded. He has not become the superstar many expected, but he is still a productive 24-year-old winger.
Lafrenière is entering the second season of a seven-year contract carrying a $7.45 million cap hit. That commitment would make a trade complicated, but it would also give Edmonton a controllable top-six forward through 2031–32.
His ability to score at five-on-five and play a physical style could complement Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl. The Rangers would likely demand a first-round pick and one of Edmonton’s best young players, making Lafrenière a significant investment rather than a traditional buy-low candidate.
Kent Johnson
Johnson may offer the best combination of upside and attainable cost. The 23-year-old’s skill has never been questioned, but his role with the Columbus Blue Jackets has fluctuated. He averaged only 11:11 per game late last season and was occasionally scratched.
Despite those issues, Johnson generated individual five-on-five scoring chances at the highest rate of his young career. His creativity and puck skills could make him an intriguing winger beside one of Edmonton’s elite centres.
Johnson must become stronger along the boards and more dependable defensively, but Edmonton would be betting that an opportunity in its top six could unlock his offensive potential.
Shane Wright
Wright is another intriguing change-of-scenery candidate. After recording 19 goals and 44 points in 2024–25, he fell to 12 goals and 27 points in 74 games last season while averaging only 13:48 of ice time.
The fourth-overall pick from the 2022 Draft remains only 22 and has demonstrated that he can score despite limited opportunities. His right-handed shot and ability to play centre would give Edmonton more flexibility throughout its top nine.
Seattle would likely demand a major return, especially from a Pacific Division rival. However, Wright’s age, affordable contract and potential would make him more valuable than a pending unrestricted free agent.
Lafrenière is the safest proven option, Johnson may be the most attainable, and Wright offers the greatest long-term upside. Any would give Edmonton more lasting value than another expensive rental.
Next: Does Oilers’ Sophomore Matt Savoie Have Something to Prove in 2026-27?
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