“Name You’ve Heard Before” Linked to Oilers in Offseason Signing

Taylor Hall’s name is already surfacing in trade rumors as the NHL trade deadline approaches, and his potential availability sparks an intriguing question for Edmonton Oilers fans: Could a reunion be in the cards? One Edmonton-based scribe thinks so.

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Currently with the Chicago Blackhawks, Hall is a veteran presence on a young team centered around rookie sensation Connor Bedard. But, things aren’t going swimmingly for Hall. He has made previous comments about being uncertain the organization wants to keep him around long-term. He’s had communication issues with former coach Luke Richardson. And, Chicago’s rebuild timeline makes it likely that Hall, a former MVP, will be moved to a playoff contender before the deadline. Could that be the Oilers? If not before the season ends, could it be before the 2025-26 season begins?

According to Kurt Leavins of The Edmonton Journal, the idea of Hall returning to Edmonton, where his NHL career began, has undeniable appeal. He writes:

Here is a name you will have heard before: Taylor Hall. Chicago will unload the veteran winger at the deadline for an asset. It is inevitable. The former MVP and Edmonton Oiler could be a summer option in Edmonton. Would a playoff run be the best way to road test that option? Hmmm.

Hall a Summer Option for the Oilers, Says Leavins

With the way the forward group is clicking and with depth questions once the roster is back and fully healthy, it’s hard to argue adding Hall for a playoff run makes the most sense. Sure, a deadline deal and playoff run could serve as a “road test” for Edmonton, and Hall’s speed, playmaking ability, and experience on the big stage would complement Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. But, is Hall someone the Oilers need this season? Maybe not.

However, next season, when deals for Jeff Skinner, Corey Perry, Connor Brown, Kasperi Kapanen, and Derek Ryan expire, there’ll be a more pressing need to fill holes. Hall’s addition would also provide the Oilers with more flexibility across their top six, something they may need to make a deep 2025-26 postseason run.

Hall has to be tired of things not going the way he’d like in the cities he’s recently played in. A familiar place might be his priority in the summer. So too, a chance to win in a city he never really wanted to leave might be appealing. Hall might be willing to take a haircut on his contract in exchange for comfort.

Of course, Edmonton’s ability to pursue Hall hinges on cap space, new deals with McDavid and Evan Bouchard, and what Hall wants. Hall makes $6 million now, and his next deal will be a fraction of this one. Still, how little is he willing to take? He can be productive, but would he sign for $1 million? $1.5M?

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