Possible Oilers trades in 2025-26 include Draisaitl, Bouchard, Yamamoto, Foegele, and Broberg, depending on team needs, cap space, and performance.

The Edmonton Oilers, like many NHL franchises, are continually balancing the delicate act of roster management—striving to optimize performance, cap flexibility, and long-term sustainability. As the 2025-26 NHL season approaches, speculation about which players might be traded is inevitable, especially for key figures whose contracts, performance, or team direction could shift the franchise’s priorities. Among the most discussed candidates are Leon Draisaitl, Evan Bouchard, Karel Yamamoto, Warren Foegele, and Broberg.

This analysis explores each player’s potential trade value, circumstances leading to possible trades, and the broader strategic context of the Oilers during this period.

1. Leon Draisaitl: The Franchise Pillar and Trade Speculation

Overview:
Leon Draisaitl is not only one of the most talented players on the Oilers but also a central figure in the team’s identity. As a two-time Hart Trophy finalist and a consistent offensive force, he’s considered one of the elite players in the NHL. His contract, signed in 2023 for eight years at an annual average value (AAV) of approximately $8.5 million, provides stability but also substantial cap commitments.

Why Might Draisaitl Be Traded?
Despite his value, several factors could make a trade conceivable:

• Cap Management: If the Oilers face cap constraints due to other large contracts (e.g., Connor McDavid, or rising stars), moving Draisaitl could free significant cap space.
• Team Rebuild or Recalibration: If Edmonton shifts toward a rebuild or retooling, trading Draisaitl could be part of a strategic overhaul to acquire multiple assets for a long-term rebuild.
• Age and Contract Length: At 29 in 2025, Draisaitl’s trade value remains high but might decline if future performance dips or injuries occur.

Trade Possibilities:
Trading Draisaitl would be a seismic move. Potential trade partners would be those seeking a top-tier scorer and leader, perhaps in a rebuild phase or seeking a playoff push with cap space. The Oilers might target:

• A package of young prospects, draft picks, and NHL-ready players.
• A franchise cornerstone in return, possibly a younger star or multiple assets.

Realistic Scenario:
A trade involving Draisaitl in 2025-26 would likely be a last resort, driven by cap constraints or a strategic pivot. Given his importance, such a move would be rare and would depend on the team’s window for contention and the value offered in return.

2. Evan Bouchard: The Young Defenseman with High Potential

Overview:
Evan Bouchard, a talented right-shot defenseman, has been a key part of the Oilers’ blueline since his draft in 2018. By 2025-26, he’s expected to be entering or in the midst of his prime, with a contract likely favorable compared to other defensemen of his caliber.

Why Might Bouchard Be Traded?

• Cap Flexibility: Bouchard’s contract is modest compared to the rising salaries of NHL defensemen. If the Oilers need cap space for other core players or free-agent signings, trading Bouchard could be attractive.
• Team Directions: If Edmonton decides to rebuild or retool, they might prioritize acquiring younger, higher-upside defensemen or draft capital.
• Performance or Fit: If Bouchard’s performance stagnates or if the team’s defensive needs change, a trade could be considered.

Trade Prospects:
The Oilers might target teams seeking a young, puck-moving defenseman, especially playoff contenders or teams with cap issues. They could seek:

• A top-line forward in return.
• A package of prospects and draft picks to rebuild the pipeline.
• A team with a clear need for defensemen and cap space.

Scenario:
In 2025-26, if Bouchard’s value peaks and the Oilers seek to maximize assets, a trade could be executed, especially if the team aims to accelerate a rebuild or retool.

3. Karel Yamamoto: The Promising Forward

Overview:
Karel Yamamoto, a rising young forward, has shown potential but might not yet be a regular in the Oilers’ lineup by 2025-26. His age, skill set, and development trajectory will influence his trade value.

Why Might Yamamoto Be Traded?

• Development and Role: If Yamamoto doesn’t develop as expected or if the team’s forward depth exceeds his spot, Edmonton could look to trade him for immediate assets.
• Team Needs: The Oilers might seek to acquire established NHL talent in other positions or draft picks, especially if they believe Yamamoto’s ceiling has plateaued.

Trade Considerations:
Yamamoto’s value would be higher if he demonstrates significant offensive upside or special teams contributions. If not, he could be packaged with other assets or used as a trade chip for a more pressing team need.

Potential Trade Partners:

• Teams seeking offensive depth or a versatile forward.
• Rebuilding franchises looking for younger assets.

4. Warren Foegele: The Depth Forward with Trade Value

Overview:
Warren Foegele has been a consistent, physical forward providing energy, grit, and secondary scoring. By 2025-26, his role and contract status will influence trade considerations.

Why Might Foegele Be Traded?

• Cap and Roster Flexibility: If Edmonton needs to clear cap space or make room for younger prospects, Foegele could be moved.
• Performance Fluctuations: If his production drops or the team’s strategy shifts toward younger, more dynamic forwards, Foegele could be a trade candidate.

Trade Scenarios:
Foegele’s value lies in his physicality and playoff experience. Teams in need of depth and grit, especially playoff contenders, might be interested in acquiring him as a role player.

5. Broberg: The Developing Defenseman

Overview:
Philip Broberg, a talented defense prospect, is expected to develop into a regular NHL defenseman by 2025-26. His youth and upside make him an attractive trade asset, especially for teams rebuilding or seeking defensive prospects.

Why Might Broberg Be Traded?

• Team Depth and Development: If Edmonton’s defensive core is solidified and Broberg’s development plateaus, they might trade him for immediate NHL help.
• Asset Management: Broberg could be packaged with draft picks or prospects to acquire established NHL talent.

Trade Context:
Broberg’s trade value hinges on his development trajectory. If he demonstrates high upside and consistent performance, he could fetch a significant return, especially from teams seeking to bolster their defensive corps.

Broader Strategic Considerations for the Oilers in 2025-26

The decision to trade these players hinges on several overarching factors:

• Cap Management: The NHL’s salary cap influences roster moves heavily. If Edmonton faces cap crunches, trading high-salary or surplus assets becomes necessary.
• Contending vs. Rebuilding: Whether the Oilers are in a competitive window or rebuilding impacts trade strategies. Contenders might trade prospects or draft picks for immediate help, while rebuilding teams might trade established stars for younger assets.
• Player Performance & Contracts: Player development, injuries, and contract statuses determine trade timing and value.
• Team Philosophy & Management Goals: The team’s vision for the future—whether aiming for a deep playoff run or a rebuild—dictates trade activity.

 The Future of Oilers’ Trades in 2025-26

Predicting specific trades decades in advance is inherently uncertain, but analyzing the circumstances and strategic needs offers insight into which players might be moved.

• Leon Draisaitl is unlikely to be traded unless the team faces extreme circumstances, such as a significant rebuild or insurmountable cap issues.
• Evan Bouchard could be a prime trade candidate if the team seeks to acquire significant assets or retool the defense.
• Karel Yamamoto and Warren Foegele are more flexible assets, potentially moved for immediate upgrades or future assets.
• Broberg’s development will determine his trade value; a strong season could see him used as a trade piece.

In summary, the Oilers’ roster management in 2025-26 will be shaped by their competitive window, cap constraints, player development, and strategic priorities. Trades involving these players are plausible, especially if the franchise seeks to adapt to evolving league conditions or pursue specific team-building goals.