The Edmonton Oilers are one of the most cap-strapped teams in the NHL at the moment. According to PuckPedia, the Oilers have around $226K in cap space heading into camp. While there doesn’t seem to be an impending cap crunch, at least not now, cap space could be a problem down the road.
As it stands, the Oilers would be unable to call up a player if needed for injury purposes. Additionally, an in-season trade would be out of the question. So, the solution could be to trade for a big-name contract currently heading for LTIR.
Specifically, that contract could be Shea Weber. Weber’s contract has bounced around over the years. It eventually landed in Chicago, helping the Blackhawks make the salary cap floor. But for a contending team like the Oilers, it could be a solution to an impending cap squeeze.
Here’s what the swap could look like:
Oilers get:
Shea Weber, contract
Blackhawks get:
2026 second-round pick
Alec Regula, D
It’s unlikely the Blackhawks demand a first-round pick for Weber’s contract. So, a second-rounder seems like a reasonable price considering the circumstances. Since the Blackhawks are still rebuilding, the team will still need to add more pieces to reach the cap floor.
However, the Blackhawks won’t likely get that from the Oilers. If anything, the Blackhawks add a second-rounder and a potentially useful blue liner. The Blackhawks can then turn around and make other deals to reach the cap floor.
Oilers Need Dry Powder for Future Moves
The Oilers look set at the moment, given how tight they are against the cap. That situation means that they have no room to make other moves this upcoming season. As the Oilers head toward the trade deadline, reinforcements could be needed to boost the team’s bottom six and secondary scoring.
That’s why having extra cap space makes all the sense in the world. By acquiring Shea Weber’s contract, the Oilers would gain about $7.8 million in cap space. That could give the club enough space to add multiple pieces or splurge on a bigger name.
As to who that could be, remains to be seen. The Oilers, nevertheless, could face a significant need for more depth. If injuries or underwhelming performances become an issue, the Oilers could be forced to make a move. As a result, having extra ammo in the chamber will come in handy.
Blackhawks Not Only Option for Edmonton
The Blackhawks are not the only option for the Oilers to target. The Montreal Canadiens have also reportedly been looking to shed the final year of Carey Price’s contract. That could pose an alternative for Edmonton.
However, the Canadiens are looking to compete. That situation means the Canadiens would be looking to get back a roster player that could contribute, as opposed to draft picks and non-roster pieces.
If such a deal could be worked out, Price’s contract could be a great option for the Oilers. But that seems more of a long shot for Edmonton. It’s something the Oilers may consider if push comes to shove, especially if the Canadiens are willing to make a deal work.
Oilers Trade Idea Sees Team Land Big-Name Contract