Oilers News & Rumours: Mukhamadullin, Stastney, Emberson, Andersen Speaks

In this edition of Oilers News and Rumours, we look at some extensions for a pair of Oilers defenders, what it could mean for Ty Emberson’s future, and some first words from the newest goaltender.

Oilers Announce Two Extensions

Following the Oilers’ acquisition of Shakir Mukhamadullin from the San Jose Sharks in the Nurse trade, the Oilers announced that they had extended him for two years. Additionally, they announced a one-year extension for Spencer Stastney.

Mukhamadullin, who is 24 years old, scored five goals and added seven assists for 12 points through 50 games with the Sharks last season. Through 83 career games, he has scored seven goals and added 15 assists for 22 points.

Stastney, who is 26 years old, scored two goals and added eight assists for 10 points through 66 games between the Oilers and Nashville Predators. Through 117 career games, he has scored four goals and added 15 assists for 19 points.

Both of them will likely be battling for a full-time spot on the bottom pairing heading into the 2026-27 season.

What Does This Mean for Ty Emberson?

With the additions of Shea and Mukhamadullin, as well as the extension for Stastney, it seems like the Oilers have an overabundance of NHL-level defenders, and Emberson might be the odd one out.

Emberson, who is 26 years old, scored two goals and added 10 assists for 12 points through 72 games last season. Throughout his career, he has scored five goals and added 30 assists for 35 points through 178 games.

The Oilers will have to make a decision on which defender is the odd one out. It’s hard to believe the Oilers would risk losing Mukhamadullin on waivers, leaving one of Stastney or Emberson as the eighth defenseman on the depth chart.

There are arguments to be made for both players to be the one who should stay in the lineup. However, the Oilers have some time to make that decision. Time will tell whether they decide to trade one or risk losing them on waivers.

Frederik Andersen Speaks

Newest goaltender Frederik Andersen spoke in an interview about joining the Oilers and why he chose to make that decision. Andersen spoke highly of the Oilers, saying, “Edmonton has been knocking on the door for a while now…it would be awesome to be a part of the team to get over the hump.”

Andersen went on to say, “I’m definitely happy to be part of a good goalie rotation. I think we can get a lot out of each other.”

Andersen joins a trio of himself, Devon Levi, and Tristan Jarry as the Oilers finally try to have some stability between the pipes entering a season where winning a Stanley Cup is their only option, as their current contention window won’t last forever.

As the 2026-27 season approaches, be sure to continue following The Hockey Writers as your source for news, updates, and more from around the NHL and the hockey world.