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Oilers Eye Top NCAA Free Agent as Season Winds Down

Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk | Last updated Mar 17, 2026 6:55 PM ET

The Edmonton Oilers have had some luck in the past in acquiring players via the college route. Quinn Hutson, Damien Carfagna, and Ryan Fanti are among the more recent additions. Dating back to Justin Schultz, Drake Caggiula, and Jordan Oesterle, it’s been a tool Edmonton has used. It appears they’re hoping to use it again.

The Oilers are reportedly scouting T.J. Hughes, the standout senior forward and captain of the Michigan Wolverines, as the NCAA season enters its final stretch.

For those unfamiliar with Hughes, he’s a 24-year-old right-shot center from Hamilton, Ontario. He’s tearing it up right now with 50 points in 36 games this season, building on a career total of over 170 NCAA points. What the Oilers probably like as much as his offense is his two-way play, faceoff ability, and leadership as Michigan’s captain.

Hughes projects as a versatile middle-six forward with potential NHL impact sooner than most undrafted prospects. Hughes’ reliability in the faceoff circle makes him appealing as well. Over his NCAA career, he’s consistently posted strong win rates—58.9%, 60.7%, 52.2%, and 57%. This season, his 381 faceoff wins rank third among full-time Big Ten centers, while his 57% success rate places him fifth in the conference.

The Oilers Went and Scouted Hughes

NHL insider Jeff Marek shared on the Sekeres & Price podcast that Edmonton had an in-person look at Hughes. “I know that Edmonton was in to see Michigan the other day and have an eyeball certainly at [college free agent] TJ Hughes; someone will sign Hughes,” Marek said.

The Oilers have consistently sought depth down the middle, trying to find the ideal fit for the team’s third line. There’s no telling yet how Hughes’ game will carry over to the NHL, but if he’s what Edmonton projects him to be, he could fit perfectly.

The Oilers Won’t Be The Only Team with Interest in Hughes

While multiple teams are reportedly interested, Edmonton could move quickly once Michigan’s season concludes.

What’s nice about college signings is that it’s just about money. There are no draft picks given as compensation, no players needing to go out to make it work. If the Oilers can create the cap room and space for another contract, all GM Stan Bowman has to do is convince the forward that Edmonton is a good fit.

Hughes represents a low-risk, high-reward addition to the pipeline, assuming the Oilers are frontrunners here.

This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission.

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