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Potential Oilers Top Target Coming off Trade Board

Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk | By Spencer Lazary | Last updated Feb 4, 2026 2:39 PM ET

With the NHL roster freeze just hours away, the Edmonton Oilers are searching the market for upgrades. On what feels like a daily basis, a new name gets linked to them. Unfortunately for Edmonton, reports surfaced today that one of their biggest trade targets is now off the board.

Boone Jenner of the Columbus Blue Jackets is reportedly staying put in Columbus. For months, it’s been expected that the organization would meet with Jenner’s agent and try to work toward a new deal during the 2026 Olympic Break. That all but removes him from any trade conversation, barring a drastic change in contract talks.

Jenner is Likely Off the Board

With Edmonton becoming a prime destination for players, names like Jenner and Artemi Panarin made a lot of sense as targets. The Oilers have been to the Stanley Cup Final two seasons in a row. They have the best player in the world in Connor McDavid, which is an attraction on its own. And even if you’re not playing with McDavid, there’s always the chance to line up next to Leon Draisaitl, which isn’t a bad consolation prize.

In Jenner’s case, the fit looked perfect on paper. He would have added depth down the middle and on the wing, while also bringing veteran leadership into the room, something that matters once the playoffs start. Now that he’s off the board, the Oilers will need to pivot and find a replacement target ahead of the March 6 trade deadline.

Jenner Replacement for the Oilers

Looking around the league, the most logical replacement is Bobby McMann of the Toronto Maple Leafs. While he isn’t as strong of a centre as Jenner, he brings a lot of the same qualities. McMann isn’t on Jenner’s level overall, but this season he’s shown he can play on a top line or anywhere in the top six with the Maple Leafs.

If the Oilers were able to land McMann, the cost would be significantly lower. It would likely fall in the same range as what the Vancouver Canucks received for Kiefer Sherwood. McMann’s current cap hit of $1.35 million, along with a more manageable extension number, also makes him easier to fit than Jenner. Add in the fact that McMann is an Alberta native, and the fit becomes even more obvious. With Jenner off the board, pivoting to McMann makes a lot of sense for Edmonton.

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

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