Isaac Howard isn't enough: Edmonton Oilers still active in trade market to give Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl the help they need
As the Edmonton Oilers recalibrate after falling just short in the Stanley Cup Final, their front office seems far from content resting on laurels. While fans clamor for changes in goal and defense, the team's brass appears laser-focused on stacking even more offensive talent around stars
Connor McDavid
and
Leon Draisaitl
— because in Edmonton, you can never have too many playmakers.
Oilers want more firepower:
Isaac Howard
's arrival just the start of aggressive plans
While much of the hockey world points toward the Oilers' goalie situation or defensive depth as urgent issues, the organization is quietly doubling down on what it already does best — scoring goals. The recent addition of Hobey Baker Award winner Isaac Howard, once seen as the big swing of the summer, now appears to be just the beginning.
'The Oilers are looking for another top six guy,' insider David Pagnotta revealed on the Hello Hockey podcast.
That search underscores a familiar trend: Edmonton's consistent pursuit of elite forwards, often at the expense of more pressing needs in net or along the blue line.
Edmonton Oilers News | Insider Contract Updates & Speculation | Mac Gadowsky
It's a high-risk, high-reward strategy. Critics argue the team has fallen into a cycle — losing big, barely adjusting, and repeating history. In Alberta, where hockey passion runs deep, fans are hoping this time around ends differently.
Could
Jordan Eberle
come full circle?
Among the names surfacing in trade speculation is a familiar face: Jordan Eberle.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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Drafted by the Oilers in 2008, Eberle spent seven seasons in Edmonton before moving on. At 35, he remains a savvy veteran with offensive instincts that could mesh well with the current core.
'One possible option for Edmonton is a reunion with its 2008 first-round pick, Jordan Eberle,' Sporting News writer Sam Bernardi noted. 'Should the Kraken, who do not appear destined for a playoff berth, feel like offloading Eberle and retaining salary for extra draft capital, Edmonton should be the first to call.'
It's a poetic possibility — a return of one of their own to chase unfinished business. But even as nostalgia brews, the question remains: Will this offensive push finally bring balance to the roster, or will it once again leave the Oilers vulnerable when it matters most?
One thing's clear — Edmonton isn't done building. And with McDavid and Draisaitl in their prime, the window to strike is now.
FAQs
1. Why are the Edmonton Oilers focusing on offense this offseason?
The Oilers are prioritizing offensive reinforcements around McDavid and Draisaitl, despite fans' concerns about goaltending and defense.
2. Is Isaac Howard the Oilers' final addition to the top six?
No, reports suggest Edmonton is still exploring options to add another top-six forward alongside Howard.
3. Could Jordan Eberle return to the Oilers?
Yes, a potential reunion with Eberle is being discussed as the Kraken may offload him before the season ends.
Also Read:
NHL Trade Talk: Connor McDavid's Oilers shift focus to Blackhawks after failed goalie trade with Canucks
For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the
India vs England Test match
here.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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