The Edmonton Oilers have lost a piece of their organizational depth, as the Carolina Hurricanes have successfully claimed centre Noah Philp off the NHL waiver wire. The news was first reported by respected league insider Elliotte Friedman on December 29, 2025.
Waiver Wire Move Costs Oilers a Prospect
In a procedural move that highlights the constant roster shuffling in professional hockey, the Carolina Hurricanes have added to their system by plucking Noah Philp from the Edmonton Oilers. The claim was executed via the standard NHL waiver process, which allows other teams to acquire players who are not on their club's protected roster list.
Philp, a right-shot centre known for his size, was previously a part of the Oilers' player pool. His last documented on-ice action for Edmonton came earlier in the season, notably in a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena on November 13, 2025.
What Philp's Departure Means for Edmonton
Losing a player on waivers represents a straightforward depletion of assets for an NHL team. For the Oilers, Philp's departure means one fewer option at the centre position within their system. While not a regular in the NHL lineup at the time of the claim, such players provide crucial depth, often filling in during injuries or serving as reliable recalls from the American Hockey League.
The Hurricanes, conversely, add a big-bodied, right-shot centre to their organization without having to trade any assets. For a management team constantly seeking to bolster their roster's depth and versatility, this type of low-risk claim can sometimes yield valuable contributors.
Looking Ahead for Both Clubs
This transaction underscores the competitive nature of NHL roster management, where every team is looking for an edge. The Oilers will now move forward without Philp in their plans, while the Hurricanes will integrate him into their system, likely assigning him to their AHL affiliate in Chicago to start, where he can compete for a future call-up opportunity.
Waiver claims are a common part of the NHL calendar, but each one subtly shifts the landscape for the teams involved. For Edmonton, it's a minor loss of depth; for Carolina, it's a potential diamond-in-the-rough acquisition as they continue to build a competitive roster for the long NHL season.
