Oilers possible trade candidates include veteran forward on expiring deal

Edmonton looks poised to chase goaltending help at the deadline; Adam Henrique ($3M, one year) could be a movable veteran to free cap space. Betting angle: expect increased odds for an Oilers deadline trade — consider props on a midseason roster move or shorter Cup-futures if a proven goalie is acquired.

Oilers All-In: Goaltending the Final Frontier

Edmonton has been a Stanley Cup contender the past two seasons but remains a step behind the champions. Despite consecutive conference titles and Finals appearances, inconsistent goaltending from the Stuart Skinner/Calvin Pickard duo has left a clear roster need heading into the trade deadline.

Why a Veteran Like Adam Henrique Could Move

At 35 and with one year left at $3 million, a veteran forward with declining offense becomes a logical trade chip. A bottom-six role could still provide value, both on-ice and in the locker room, while freeing cap space for higher-priority additions.

Deadline Strategy: Goalie First, Contracts Second

If a top-tier goalie is available, the Oilers should prioritize that upgrade. If not, swapping expiring or veteran contracts for flexibility — including moving Henrique — becomes a viable alternative to create the payroll breathing room necessary for larger moves.

Cap Dynamics and the McDavid Extension

Any roster maneuvering also factors into Connor McDavid’s long-term future. Clearing Henrique’s $3M cap hit would ease extension talks or allow the organization to wait for additional cap space before committing. Keeping McDavid happy likely requires sustained contention, which makes smart deadline acquisitions crucial.

Other Key Pending Free Agents

Beyond Henrique, several important contracts loom: Mattias Ekholm, the goaltending tandem, Jake Walman, and depth forwards such as Kasper Kapanen and Curtis Lazar. Their statuses will influence both short-term roster construction and offseason planning.

Betting Implications

A credible goaltending upgrade at the deadline would boost Edmonton’s postseason prospects and could shorten odds on their Cup futures. Conversely, a failure to address netminding may temper expectations and affect in-season betting markets. Punters should monitor trade chatter and deadline moves before adjusting futures or prop bets.

Who will be on the move for Edmonton?

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