There has been a ton of speculation surrounding the Edmonton Oilers and their plans at the 2026 NHL Trade Deadline. However, after Monday’s episode of 32 Thoughts The Podcast, it sounds like acquiring a goalie is not expected to be part of it.
That’s right. They are reportedly standing pat with the combination of Tristan Jarry and Connor Ingram. According to Elliotte Friedman, Edmonton is not expected to make a move for another goaltender and would rather focus its attention up front and on the blue line. The reasoning is pretty straightforward. They already made their big swing in net earlier this season when they acquired Jarry from the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for Stuart Skinner.
Oilers Not Targeting Goaltending
As mentioned, Friedman was asked by co-host Kyle Bukauskas whether the Oilers were considering another change in goal, and he was quick to shut it down. He made it clear that he believes Edmonton would rather address other areas after already reshaping the crease months ago.
While he did not completely rule anything out, the tone suggested that goaltending is not at the top of the list right now. If that holds true, the Oilers are putting their trust in Jarry and Ingram to carry them on a long playoff run. Jarry has been part of extended post-season runs before with Pittsburgh, though it is fair to point out those Penguins teams were deeper overall. That seems to be what Edmonton’s front office is trying to address now.
They already added Connor Murphy in a deal with the Chicago Blackhawks, which helps defensively. They have also been linked to Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman Oliver Ekman-Larsson as another possible addition on the back end.
Related: Oilers Must Convince Maple Leafs’ Ekman-Larsson To Waive NTC
Up front, the Oilers have been sending out feelers. They have been linked to Nicolas Roy and Bobby McMann from the Maple Leafs. If the focus is more on depth, a reunion with Warren Foegele of the Los Angeles Kings or Nick Bjugstad of the New Jersey Devils could make sense.
At this time of year, though, things can change quickly. Last season’s Brad Marchand trade came together right at the buzzer, just before the 3:00 pm EST deadline. So while the Oilers may not be actively shopping for a goalie, that does not mean they would ignore an opportunity if something unexpected landed in their lap. For now, the plan appears to be simple. Spend assets on improving depth, whether that is another defenceman or a reliable third-line centre. But as always around the deadline, nothing is ever completely off the table.
