Rumour board names unexpected trade option for Edmonton Oilers

Oilers could look to Jesperi Kotkaniemi to fix key roster weakness

When assessing the Edmonton Oilers’ lineup, it’s clear there are a few weaknesses that must be addressed as the 2026 NHL trade deadline approaches — particularly if head coach Kris Knoblauch continues deploying his lines as he has.

One of the most pressing concerns is depth scoring down the middle, especially at third-line centre. With the recent losses of David Tomasek and Noah Philp, Edmonton’s centre depth has thinned considerably. That situation could prompt the Oilers to explore the trade market, where a former top prospect has now emerged as a possible option: Carolina Hurricanes centre Jesperi Kotkaniemi.

Former top pick appears on trade board

Sportsnet insider Nick Kypreos recently released his latest trade board, outlining the league’s most notable potential trade targets. The list arrives ahead of the 2026 Olympic roster freeze and the NHL trade deadline, and follows the Vancouver Canucks’ announcement of a revised organizational direction.

Several recognizable names appear, including Oilers forward Andrew Mangiapane, who has been publicly linked with a move after frequent healthy scratches. Among the more intriguing entries, however, is Kotkaniemi.

Drafted third overall by the Montreal Canadiens in 2018, Kotkaniemi later became the centrepiece of a high-profile offer-sheet battle in 2021. The Carolina Hurricanes ultimately won that dispute, bringing the Finnish centre to Raleigh, where he has remained ever since.

Change of scenery could spark resurgence

Kotkaniemi has shown flashes of offensive ability during his NHL career, and a change of environment could help reignite his game. Within the Oilers’ system — potentially alongside players such as Matt Savoie, Isaac Howard, or Jack Roslovic — there’s a belief that he could rediscover some of his confidence and consistency.

If acquired at the right price, Kotkaniemi could provide Edmonton with a reliable secondary scoring option and much-needed stability down the middle.

The 25-year-old is currently halfway through an eight-year contract carrying a $4.825 million cap hit. He posted career-best numbers in the 2022–23 season with 18 goals and 25 assists (43 points) while playing as a middle-six centre. Since then, his production has dipped, failing to surpass the 33-point mark he recorded last season.

Cap hit remains biggest obstacle

The biggest challenge for Edmonton in pursuing Kotkaniemi would be managing his salary. However, there are potential solutions, including involving a third team to retain a portion of the contract or offsetting the cap hit by sending salary back to Carolina in a larger deal.

With the trade deadline nearing and centre depth becoming a growing concern, Kotkaniemi is a name worth monitoring as the Oilers weigh their options.