Top-3 Edmonton Oilers Trade Candidates Entering 2026-27

The Edmonton Oilers are going all-in this season, as it's Stanley Cup or bust. With Connor McDavid having just two years left on his current contract, and with Mike Babcock now behind the bench, the pressure is turned all the way up in Oil country.

Oilers general manager Stan Bowman has some trade assets to work with this season, as it's expected the team will look to upgrade their top six, while also landing a top-four defenceman. In net, the Oilers have three goalies currently on their depth chart, but that doesn't mean they won't browse the market to see what's available.

As far as trade candidates go, here's the top-3 Oilers most likely to be traded this season:

Isaac Howard

Howard's given a huge opportunity this season, especially early on without Ryan Nugent-Hopkins in the lineup for several weeks. Howard has all the tools, he's loaded with potential, it's just going to come down to compete level, and consistent production under head coach Mike Babcock. If Howard doesn't take the next step this season, he'll likely be involved in trade talks.

Frank Seravalli on The Nielson Show about Isaac Howard: ''Is a guy that has high-end skills. Probably doesn't have the wheels to put it all together and make it work and jump off the page. And I'm looking at him as a classic tweener. He's a guy that in the right circumstance and situation could be an asset but at times it feels like you're squinting and hoping against hope.'

Tristan Jarry

One game into the Babcock era and Tristan Jarry was already shelled, and called out in the media. He has this season and next left on his contract, and owns a 12-team no-trade clause. Jarry worked his butt off in the offseason to ensure he can stay healthy for an entire season, we'll just have to wait and see about his production. Once Frederik Andersen is back, if Jarry isn't performing, look for the Oilers to retain a huge chunk of his salary and try to move him. 

Beau Akey

Akey's a former second-round pick, who at 21, still has boatloads of potential. He hasn't been able to stay healthy at any level, and it's caught up to his development in Edmonton as well. If he excels in the AHL this season, look for Akey to be a prime trade candidate for the rental market.