During the 2026 Winter Olympics break, the Edmonton Oilers aren’t planning to stay idle. General manager Stan Bowman is expected to use this opportunity to reassess the team’s roster and strategize for the upcoming trade deadline on March 6, engaging in discussions with other general managers, player agents, and even former coaching staff.
Although Leon Draisaitl’s recent public comments didn’t directly trigger these behind-the-scenes negotiations, NHL Insider Elliott Friedman clarified during an Oilers Now segment with Bob Stauffer that changes are on the horizon for Edmonton. While these adjustments might not happen immediately during or right after the break, they are likely to come in the near future.
Trending stories include insights on Edmonton’s depth, possible pursuits of notable players like Maple Leafs defenseman, and trade speculations involving names such as Bobby McMann, Nicholas Roy, and Oliver Ekman Larson. Friedman also addressed rumors about Hall of Famer Paul Coffey potentially returning to an assistant coaching role with the team. However, sources indicate that Coffey is not currently available for such a move, especially since Kris Knoblauch recently signed a new contract, making a coaching change less probable at the moment. Nonetheless, discussions and considerations around team adjustments are ongoing, with the trade market and roster moves shaping up as a significant focus.
Fans should keep an eye on the Hockey News Edmonton Oilers site for the latest updates, game coverage, and more—adding it to their news feed ensures they stay informed on team developments.
Fan Take: This upcoming period of potential roster changes excites fans because it could make the Oilers more competitive and dynamic moving forward. For the sport, such strategic adjustments highlight the importance of active management and early planning, keeping the NHL engaging for fans and raising anticipation for how these moves will influence the team’s future.
