According to a prominent NHL insider, the Edmonton Oilers are expected to remain active in the trade market, with their sights set on adding depth to their forward group.
Insider Points to Ongoing Roster Moves
Bob Stauffer, host of Oilers Now, provided insight into the team's strategy following their recent acquisition of goaltender Tristan Jarry. Stauffer suggests that despite already addressing needs in net and on defense, the Oilers' management is likely pursuing another forward capable of playing in their top nine lines.
He tempered expectations for a blockbuster name, however. "It may not be a super sexy guy," Stauffer said, drawing a comparison to the team's earlier trade for Vasily Podkolzin. While that move didn't generate major headlines initially, Podkolzin's performance—including a goal against the Toronto Maple Leafs on December 13, 2025—is now being viewed favorably.
Injury Returns Create Flexibility
A key factor in this potential move is the impending return of injured forwards Jack Roslovic and Kasperi Kapanen. Stauffer noted that Roslovic, acquired by General Manager Stan Bowman, is targeting a return around December 27 against the Calgary Flames.
Once back, these players will give the Oilers more options to deploy a genuine three-line attack. This flexibility might influence the type of forward they seek. The new addition may not necessarily be a center, as the team could utilize Ryan Nugent-Hopkins at the third-line center position or deploy the right-shot Roslovic down the middle.
Evaluating Recent Trade Success
Stauffer offered a candid assessment of the Oilers' recent transactions. He pointed out that not every move pans out as hoped, citing winger Andrew Mangiapane as a player who is "not tracking like a hit" at the moment.
In contrast, he identified the acquisitions of Vasily Podkolzin and Jack Roslovic as deals that currently appear to be successes for the organization. The potential new forward would aim to follow in that vein—a practical addition aimed at improving the team's overall depth and competitiveness as they push through the NHL season.
With a move in goal (Jarry), adjustments on defense, and Connor Ingram developing in the minors, a Top 9 forward appears to be the final piece of the puzzle the Oilers are actively trying to solve.
