Oilers Reportedly Exploring a Lateral Trade

That is a trade-value assessment, rather than a reported asking price. Nevertheless, right-side depth gives the Oilers a potentially useful bargaining chip, particularly with a club that has extra forwards but needs someone capable of stepping directly into its defensive rotation.

The problem is that Emberson’s strong performance against the Seattle Kraken on Saturday reinforced the argument for keeping him. He helped Edmonton deliver a much more controlled defensive effort, showing why moving him simply because he could generate the best offer would be questionable.

A lateral trade must improve the overall roster. Replacing a useful defenceman with an interchangeable fourth-line forward would not necessarily accomplish that. Emberson should only enter serious discussions if the return provides a clear upgrade in an area Edmonton cannot adequately address internally.

Stastney Is Easier to Move, but the Return Could Be Limited

Stastney appears to be the more straightforward trade candidate. Edmonton’s crowded defence makes it difficult to provide consistent opportunities for every player, and moving someone outside the regular lineup would carry less immediate disruption.

The Oilers acquired Stastney from the Nashville Predators for a third-round pick last December. That investment provides context, but it does not establish what another team would surrender today. His current role, the acquiring club’s needs and available alternatives would determine his market.

His mobility could interest a team needing depth on the left side. However, Stastney might not command enough to bring back a forward who meaningfully improves Edmonton’s lineup. That is where the term “lateral” becomes complicated. A spare-defenceman-for-spare-forward exchange could balance the roster, but it would not automatically strengthen it. If the Oilers want a reliable everyday contributor, they might need to add another asset or offer a more valuable player.

Mukhamadullin Has More Upside — and More Value to Protect

Mukhamadullin should attract a stronger return than Stastney because his appeal extends beyond filling an immediate vacancy. His size, mobility, ability to play both sides of the blue line and development potential give another organization greater flexibility and long-term upside. Edmonton acquired the 24-year-old from the San Jose Sharks this summer, making him a recent investment in the defence’s future.

A buyer could view Mukhamadullin as someone capable of growing into a larger role, rather than remaining a depth option. That upside could expand the calibre of forward available in return. However, it also raises Edmonton’s threshold for making a deal. Trading Mukhamadullin for temporary injury coverage would sacrifice potential long-term value to solve a short-term problem. If he is moved, the incoming forward should have a meaningful role after the roster returns to health.

Which Forwards Could Fit Edmonton’s Search?

Kirby Dach remains an intriguing possibility because a right-shot centre would address a specific roster need. Friedman previously connected Edmonton to Dach and said the Oilers had also investigated Shane Wright, although he expressed doubt that a Wright deal would happen. Those earlier discussions do not confirm either player is involved in the current lateral-trade search.

Dach would offer a higher-upside option, but his injury history complicates the fit. Edmonton must also avoid assuming that Stastney alone could satisfy the Montreal Canadiens’ valuation.

Mark Kastelic is another speculative option worth examining. His physicality, right-handed shot and ability to handle fourth-line centre duties could address several needs for Edmonton. He would offer a different dimension in the bottom six, although there is no confirmed link to the Oilers’ current trade search.

Kevin Stenlund could also fit Edmonton’s search for a right-shot centre. His defensive approach, penalty-killing experience and faceoff ability would give the Oilers someone who could remain useful once their injured forwards return. However, his availability is uncertain, and he should be viewed as a potential fit rather than a reported target.

Oilers Should Prioritize Lasting Roster Value

Edmonton has a reasonable opportunity to rebalance its roster, but defensive depth should not be treated as disposable. Emberson could bring the strongest immediate return, Mukhamadullin offers more upside than Stastney and Stastney would likely be the least disruptive departure.

The right move depends on the forward coming back. An acquisition should strengthen the bottom six when everyone is healthy, rather than merely fill a lineup spot this week.