NHL Rumors: 3 Oilers Who Could Become Trade Candidates Next Season

Thursday, July 31, 2025
Edmonton Oilers forward Vasily Podkolzin skates during 2025 game.

According to Allan Mitchell of The Athletic, the Edmonton Oilers could be forced to part with one or more young pieces this season if a major upgrade becomes necessary. 

While GM Stan Bowman has worked to build up the club’s depth and prospect pool, the team’s win-now window may still demand aggressive moves, and three names stand out as potential trade chips: Stuart Skinner, Matt Savoie, and Vasily Podkolzin.

Stuart Skinner, Matt Savoie, and Vasily Podkolzin Among Oilers’ Top Trade Chips

Stuart Skinner’s $2.6 million cap hit makes him one of the best values in the NHL among starting goaltenders. With 50 playoff games and two Stanley Cup Final appearances already under his belt, Skinner has the résumé and team-friendly deal to attract interest. 

Bowman has publicly noted that Edmonton’s goaltending situation remains under evaluation. If the Oilers seek a netminding upgrade, Skinner could be central to that deal.

Savoie and Podkolzin Could Be Moved for Veteran Help

Matt Savoie is poised to make a push for a top-six role this fall, likely alongside Leon Draisaitl. If he thrives, he’s a fixture. But if the Oilers need a more established scorer midseason, the 21-year-old could be moved. 

Vasily Podkolzin, a Bowman acquisition, developed strong chemistry with Draisaitl last season but has struggled with consistency. If younger wingers like Isaac Howard surpass him in the lineup, Podkolzin might be on the move.

With the Oilers low on future draft capital and eager to capitalize on their current core, management could be forced to sacrifice promising youth for proven production. While no trades are imminent, Mitchell’s analysis suggests that Skinner, Savoie, and Podkolzin could be players who's names pop up in trade rumors next season.

Photo Credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images

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