The Edmonton Oilers are in the market for a goaltender as free agency approaches, and goalie expert Jim Matheson argues that Florida Panthers unrestricted free agent Daniil Tarasov is the right fit. While Connor Ingram has expressed interest in returning and performed well last season, discussions have been minimal, suggesting general manager Stan Bowman may look elsewhere when the free-agent window opens Wednesday.
Why Tarasov Fits the Oilers
Matheson highlights Tarasov's attributes: the 27-year-old Russian stands 6-foot-5, is relatively inexpensive, and appears to have overcome the hip issues that plagued him during his time with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Despite only 98 NHL games, Tarasov had a strong season with Florida in 2025-26. The Panthers, however, have opted to move forward with Jakob Markstrom and Akira Schmid as their tandem, letting both Sergei Bobrovsky and Tarasov become free agents.
"Tarasov is talented, cheap, he's big, young, seems to have gotten over his injury issues," Matheson wrote. "If the Oilers were wanting to trade for the untried Sebastian Cossa, why not sign Tarasov?"
Comparing Options
Matheson notes that Bowman could consider other options, such as trading for an older, more expensive goalie like Darcy Kuemper of the Los Angeles Kings. However, he argues that Tarasov offers upside at a lower cost, potentially between $1.5 million and $2 million per season. The Oilers previously found success with a similar acquisition: in 2015, they traded for Cam Talbot, then a 27-year-old backup with 57 NHL games, who helped lead the team to the playoffs in 2017.
"Lest we forget, 11 years ago, the Oilers traded for 27-year-old Cam Talbot with just 57 NHL games," Matheson wrote. "It worked out fine in net with Talbot, getting the Oilers to the playoffs in 2016-2017 with his 42 wins."
Injury and Performance Context
While Ingram is durable, Tarasov has had hip problems in the past, though he remained healthy last season with Florida. Matheson draws a parallel to Jet Greaves, who outperformed the more expensive Elvis Merzlikins in Columbus after getting a chance. Tarasov was traded to Florida last summer for a fifth-round pick and outplayed Bobrovsky during the regular season, though Bobrovsky typically elevates his game in the playoffs.
"Couldn't Tarasov be like the unsung Jet Greaves, who never got much of a shot in Columbus until they decided he was better than the more expensive Elvis Merzlikins?" Matheson asked.
Decision-Makers and Preferences
Oilers goalie coach Peter Aubry should have significant input on which UFA to target, along with analytics staff. New head coach Mike Babcock will also have preferences, particularly favoring bigger goalies. This makes smaller netminders like Buffalo's Devon Levi or Boston's Michael DiPietro less likely targets, according to Matheson.
"Babcock likes bigger goalies than smaller ones, which is why Buffalo's Devon Levi doesn't seem an answer, or Boston's fine AHL tender Michael DiPietro," Matheson wrote.
With the free-agent market opening Wednesday, the Oilers face a critical decision. Tarasov presents a low-risk, high-reward option that could stabilize the position without breaking the cap.
