Oilers Offseason Shakeup: 4 Players Edmonton Could Move On From in 2026

Financially, Jarry carries a $5.375 million cap hit for two more seasons, along with a 10-team no-trade list, complicating any potential move. However, a team like the Florida Panthers, who currently lack goaltenders under contract for next season, could be a speculative landing spot if Edmonton retains some salary or includes sweeteners.

Nurse Trade Talk Isn’t Going Away

Nurse remains one of the most polarizing players on the roster. While he logs heavy minutes and contributes in all situations, his $9.25 million cap hit has long been a topic of debate. Leading up to the trade deadline, there were quiet rumblings that the Oilers explored moving him and that chatter is expected to resurface this offseason.

A team like the San Jose Sharks could make sense on paper. With only two defensemen signed for next season and over $40 million in cap space, they have both the need and flexibility. The biggest hurdle, however, is Nurse’s no-movement clause. Any deal would require his approval, and whether he’d be willing to join a rebuilding team remains uncertain.

Still, if Edmonton is serious about reshaping its cap structure, moving Nurse would be one of the most impactful ways to do it.

Henrique Likely Replaced Internally

Henrique’s lack of production ultimately forced the Oilers’ hand at the trade deadline, leading them to acquire Jason Dickinson to solidify the third-line centre role. He’s younger, more defensively reliable, and fits that third-line shutdown role a lot better than what they were getting.

With Henrique’s deal expiring, it’s hard to see a path where he’s back. Dickinson looks like the natural replacement if they can get an extension done. He does a lot of the little things right and gives them more stability down the lineup, which is something they clearly felt they were missing.

Pickard Could Seek Opportunity Elsewhere

Pickard has been a serviceable backup, but like Henrique, he’s on an expiring deal and may not return. With uncertainty in the crease and potential changes coming, Pickard could look for a more stable opportunity elsewhere.

A team like the Carolina Hurricanes could be a logical fit. Known for maximizing value in net, Carolina may look for a cost-effective backup option, and Pickard fits that mold.

A Summer of Change Ahead

The Oilers are clearly at a crossroads. With championship aspirations still intact, they can’t afford to run it back with the same inconsistencies. Whether it’s moving on from underperforming goaltenders, reshaping the blue line, or reallocating depth roles, this offseason could bring significant turnover.

And if these four players are indeed on the way out, it may just be the start of a much larger transformation in Edmonton.