Jake Walman’s Healthy Scratch Leaves Oilers With Tough Choices

That difference matters. The results have been considerably worse than the underlying chance quality would suggest, which leaves room for improvement without assuming every problem disappears. Expected goals measure the quality and volume of chances allowed; they do not absolve a player of poor reads or missed assignments.

The sample is also too small to define Walman’s entire season. Edmonton can acknowledge that his performance has warranted consequences while recognizing that these numbers are unlikely to tell the complete story of his ability. Mike Babcock explained his approach to lineup decisions plainly, “We try to put the guys in to have success. That’s what we’re doing.”

The Calgary result strengthens the argument for competition. It does not prove that Walman’s absence caused the shutout. A team’s defensive performance involves its forwards, goaltending, and execution across all three zones. Edmonton should resist turning one game into a verdict on a seven-year commitment.

A Trade Is Highly Unlikely, but Not Impossible

Walman’s seven-year extension beginning this season makes the timing particularly awkward. Edmonton has barely started a major commitment, and already discussing an exit would mean reassessing the very role it expected him to fill. His full no-movement clause is another significant obstacle. The Oilers cannot simply identify a willing buyer and complete a deal. Walman would have to approve the destination, giving him considerable influence over whether any trade conversation becomes meaningful.

That does not make a move impossible. If his role deteriorated and another organisation offered a situation he preferred, both sides could have reasons to consider a change. However, there is a substantial distance between that scenario and one healthy scratch. The financial commitment would also shape the return. A buyer would be assuming years of risk, while Edmonton would be negotiating at a moment when Walman’s value is under pressure. Adding assets or retaining salary simply to move him could leave the Oilers paying to solve a problem they might still be able to fix internally.

Toronto and Philadelphia Offer Potential Conversations

For teams seeking defensive help, Walman’s situation could invite a call. The Toronto Maple Leafs and Philadelphia Flyers are logical clubs to consider as potential conversations, although neither should be presented as a confirmed Walman suitor. Toronto’s search for help includes a willingness to move a premium asset for a difference-maker on defence. Whether the Maple Leafs would place Walman in that category is a separate question. His puck movement could appeal, but his current struggles and lengthy contract would require careful evaluation.

Philadelphia is a more conditional fit. If the Flyers pursue an established left-shot defenceman who can help their transition game, Walman could warrant discussion. They would need to believe his difficulties are correctable and that his contract fits their longer-term plans. Needing help on defence would not automatically make him their preferred target. Edmonton would have its own concerns. Trading Walman for futures would create another question about the blue line, while accepting an unwanted contract in return might merely exchange one problem for another. Any deal would need to improve the Oilers’ roster or provide flexibility worth the loss.

Edmonton Needs to Help Walman Earn His Way Back

The better approach is to establish a clear route back into the lineup. That starts with identifying specific improvements: protecting the middle, completing cleaner exits, and choosing better moments to activate offensively. Walman should not feel compelled to repair his entire season in one shift. Simplifying his decisions could help restore confidence, but Edmonton should also preserve the puck-moving ability that gives him value. Playing cautiously enough to avoid every mistake can become its own problem if it prevents a defenceman from making useful plays.

A consistent partner and manageable assignments would give him a fair opportunity to respond. His salary should not guarantee minutes, and teammates performing well should keep their opportunities. Still, scratching him without a practical plan for improvement would accomplish little beyond delivering the initial message. That means assessing his response over a meaningful stretch, rather than reacting to his next isolated mistake.

The Oilers should remain willing to listen if a sensible trade emerges. For now, their priority should be helping Walman rebuild his game and earn trust through better shifts. Hoping he rebounds is reasonable; giving him the structure and opportunity to do so is the necessary next step.