The Edmonton Oilers might benefit from these four AHL trade targets.

As the NHL trade deadline approaches, teams like the Edmonton Oilers are constantly evaluating ways to improve their roster. While much of the focus tends to be on marquee NHL players or high-profile trades, sometimes the solution lies within the AHL, the NHL’s minor league affiliate. A smart and strategic trade for an AHL player can address gaps in a roster, add depth, or provide a spark that could make a significant impact on a team’s success. For the Edmonton Oilers, who are looking to bolster their roster and make a deep playoff run, the AHL offers some potential targets that could be beneficial additions.

In this article, we’ll explore four AHL players who could be trade targets for the Edmonton Oilers. These players may not currently be NHL stars, but they possess the skill sets, potential, and fit within the Oilers’ system to make an immediate impact. Whether it’s adding depth on defense, improving the bottom six forward group, or providing extra goaltending support, these players could play pivotal roles for the Oilers as they look to contend for a Stanley Cup.

1. William Eklund – Forward, San Jose Barracuda (AHL)

Background:

William Eklund, a former top prospect of the San Jose Sharks, has spent the 2024 season playing for their AHL affiliate, the San Jose Barracuda. The 22-year-old Swedish forward was originally drafted 7th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft by the Sharks and was widely regarded as one of the top offensive talents in his draft class. Eklund made his NHL debut in 2021 but has since been primarily playing in the AHL. Despite showing flashes of brilliance in the NHL, Eklund has struggled to consistently crack the Sharks’ lineup, which has resulted in his development being furthered in the AHL.

Why He Fits with the Oilers:

The Edmonton Oilers are stacked with offensive firepower at the top of their lineup, but they’ve been seeking more consistent depth scoring and competition for spots in the bottom six. Eklund, with his high hockey IQ and playmaking abilities, could provide a strong complement to the Oilers’ offensive style. He is an intelligent and skilled player who can move the puck efficiently and create opportunities for others. Although he’s not an immediate solution to replace top-six players, Eklund could slot in as a middle-six winger or even a bottom-six contributor with the potential to grow into a larger role.

Eklund’s ability to play both center and wing is an added advantage, giving the Oilers versatility in their forward lines. His skill in the transition game and his knack for distributing the puck would pair well with some of the more high-octane offensive players in Edmonton, particularly those like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Adding a player like Eklund could not only improve the Oilers’ depth but also offer a potential long-term solution to bolster their forward group.

Key Strengths:

• Playmaking and vision
• Versatility (can play both center and wing)
• High hockey IQ
• Offensive upside, potential for a top-six role

Potential Role:

While Eklund’s offensive potential is undeniable, the Oilers would likely bring him in to add depth to their forward lines. He could provide support on the power play and be a key contributor to a revamped third or fourth line. His development under the Oilers’ system could help him realize his potential at the NHL level.

2. Zac Jones – Defenseman, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

Background:

Zac Jones, a 24-year-old defenseman for the AHL’s Hartford Wolf Pack (the New York Rangers’ affiliate), is a promising blue-liner with offensive upside. Originally drafted by the Rangers in the third round of the 2019 NHL Draft, Jones has spent time with both the NHL and AHL squads, offering strong mobility and offensive instincts from the back end. His time in the AHL has helped him refine his game and develop a more complete skill set, and he is widely regarded as one of the better offensive defensemen in the AHL.

Jones has also seen some NHL action, but due to the depth on the Rangers’ defense, he has often been on the outside looking in. This could open the door for a trade, especially if the Rangers are looking to clear cap space or make a move elsewhere. For a team like the Oilers, who have a potent offense but have struggled with defensive depth in recent years, Jones could be a great fit.

Why He Fits with the Oilers:

The Oilers have relied heavily on their top four defensemen, and while players like Darnell Nurse, Cody Ceci, and Evan Bouchard provide a solid foundation, there are still areas where depth could be improved. Jones would offer both offensive upside and mobility—two qualities that fit well within the Oilers’ system. His ability to contribute on the power play would help Edmonton as they look to improve their overall special teams, an area that has been inconsistent in recent seasons.

In addition to his offensive potential, Jones is a mobile defenseman who excels in moving the puck up the ice. His skating ability could be a major asset for a team like the Oilers, whose transition game is a big part of their identity. If Jones can continue to develop at the NHL level, he could become a key contributor in the Oilers’ bottom four defense pairing, playing significant minutes and adding another dimension to their blue line.

Key Strengths:

• Strong offensive instincts and puck movement
• Great skating and mobility
• Power play potential
• Experience in both the NHL and AHL

Potential Role:

Jones could slot in on the Oilers’ third pairing, adding much-needed depth to the blue line. His ability to move the puck quickly and contribute offensively could make him a valuable asset on both the power play and even-strength situations. If Jones adapts well to the NHL, he could push for a bigger role in the top four, providing more options for the Oilers in both the short and long term.

3. Ivan Prosvetov – Goaltender, Tucson Roadrunners (AHL)

Background:

Ivan Prosvetov, a 24-year-old Russian goaltender for the AHL’s Tucson Roadrunners, has shown promise as a future NHL netminder. Prosvetov, originally drafted by the Arizona Coyotes in the 4th round of the 2018 NHL Draft, has spent much of his professional career in the AHL but has shown flashes of brilliance at both levels. Over the past few seasons, he has established himself as one of the better goaltenders in the AHL, posting solid numbers while facing a significant workload.

Prosvetov has spent time as a backup for the Coyotes and has proven capable of handling the pressure of playing in the NHL. However, with the Coyotes looking to retool their roster and develop younger players, there is an opportunity for Prosvetov to find a fresh start with another organization. For the Oilers, who have strong starting goaltender Stuart Skinner but lack experienced depth behind him, Prosvetov could be a strong backup option.

Why He Fits with the Oilers:

The Oilers’ goaltending situation has been a point of concern in recent years. While Skinner has proven to be a capable starter, having a reliable backup is essential for a team with championship aspirations. Prosvetov, with his AHL experience and potential to develop into a more reliable NHL backup, could offer the Oilers the depth they need in goal.

Prosvetov has shown the ability to step up when called upon, and his performances in the AHL suggest that he is ready for an NHL opportunity. The Oilers could bring him in as a backup or part-time starter, providing a solid safety net for Skinner in case of injury or a down stretch. His presence would also allow the Oilers to rest Skinner more often during the grueling NHL season, keeping him fresh for the playoffs.

Key Strengths:

• Strong AHL numbers and experience
• Potential to develop into a solid NHL backup
• Calm under pressure, with a strong presence in net
• Ready for an increased role at the NHL level

Potential Role:

Prosvetov could slot in as a backup goalie, providing depth and competition for the Oilers’ crease. He could split time with Skinner or serve as a reliable option in case of injury, ensuring that the Oilers don’t have to rely too heavily on one goaltender during the season. His upside makes him a valuable asset as a depth piece for Edmonton’s goaltending situation.

4. Tyler Madden – Forward, Ontario Reign (AHL)

Background:

Tyler Madden is a highly skilled 23-year-old center currently playing for the Ontario Reign, the AHL affiliate of the Los Angeles Kings. A second-round pick by the Vancouver Canucks in 2018, Madden has developed into a dynamic forward in the AHL, with an ability to create offense and contribute both in even-strength situations and on special teams. Madden has seen some time in the NHL with the Kings but has spent the majority of his time developing in the AHL.

Madden’s game is built around his skating and hockey sense. He is a creative playmaker who is not afraid to take on defenders and set up scoring chances for his teammates. He also has a strong shot and the ability to score, making him a multi-dimensional offensive threat. Given the Kings’ depth at forward, Madden might find more opportunities elsewhere, and the Oilers could be an ideal landing spot.

Why He Fits with the Oilers:

The Oilers are always looking for talented forwards who can make an impact, especially with their second and third lines. Madden’s ability to contribute offensively and his speed would make him a great addition to Edmonton’s fast-paced style of play. He could slot into the bottom six and provide a burst of energy and creativity, helping to round out the Oilers’ forward depth.

With the Oilers’ top-six forwards often commanding a lot of attention from opposing defenses, a player like Madden could exploit matchups in the bottom six, providing both scoring and playmaking. His versatility and potential would give the Oilers a solid option for a scoring role in their forward group.

Key Strengths:

• Strong skating and offensive ability
• Playmaking and vision
• Creative and dynamic with the puck
• Ability to contribute on special teams

Potential Role:

Madden could be used in a bottom-six role, where he could add speed and creativity to the Oilers’ forward group. His offensive skills would complement the more defensive-minded players, and he could be used on both power play and penalty kill situations, offering flexibility for the Oilers.