NHL Trade Rumors: Edmonton Oilers to trade either young winger owing to cap casualties

As the summer approaches, the NHL's Edmonton Oilers' General Manager, Ken Holland, faces a challenging task. With key players like Evan Bouchard, Ryan McLeod, and Klim Kostin all in need of new contracts, Holland must navigate a tight salary cap situation.

Despite a limited budget of only $5.07 million in cap space remaining after re-signing Derek Ryan, Holland is determined to bolster the team's top six forwards. However, to make room for new deals, a tough decision must be made. The writing is on the wall: either Kailer Yamamoto or Warren Foegele will likely become cap casualties.

The case to trade Yamamoto is based on his underwhelming performance during the 2022-23 season. Despite being given ample opportunities, Yamamoto struggled to produce consistent results. He played an average of 16 minutes and 35 seconds per game but spent a significant amount of time without being on a line alongside superstars Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl.

His most common linemates were Evander Kane and Draisaitl, and they played together for a total of 167 minutes. However, Yamamoto managed only 10 goals and 15 assists in 58 games. Injuries played a part in his lackluster NHL season, disrupting his rhythm and causing him to miss valuable playing time. Additionally, Yamamoto carries a higher price tag with a $3.1 million contract, making him a potential trade candidate.

On the other hand, Warren Foegele presents a different case. Despite a similar point total to Yamamoto, Foegele achieved his production in fewer minutes per game. He averaged just 12 minutes and 42 seconds of ice time during the 2022-23 NHL season but still managed to contribute with 28 points in 67 NHL games.

Impressively, Foegele accomplished this while spending limited time alongside McDavid or Draisaitl, playing primarily with other linemates such as Ryan, McLeod, Puljujarvi, Bjugstad, and Janmark.

Foegele had approximately 144 minutes playing alongside the Oilers' superstars. Furthermore, Foegele's contract comes at a more affordable price of $2.75 million. At 27 years old, he is considered to be in his prime, bringing valuable experience and stability to the lineup.

---

Balancing Potential and Finances for the NHL's Edmonton Oilers

Ultimately, the decision of whom to trade between Yamamoto and Foegele rests with Holland and the Oilers' management. Both players have shown promise but have yet to consistently deliver at a level expected of top-six forwards.

Yamamoto's struggles to produce while playing alongside McDavid or Draisaitl raise concerns about his ability to maximize his potential within the Oilers' system. Meanwhile, Foegele's solid production in limited ice time offers a case for keeping him as a valuable depth forward.

In the end, it will come down to weighing the financial implications and potential long-term impact on the team. While Yamamoto is younger and may still have untapped potential, his higher salary could hinder the Oilers' ability to make further roster improvements.

Foegele, on the other hand, provides a more cost-effective option without sacrificing too much in terms of production. Additionally, the Oilers could potentially explore other options to fill Foegele's role through depth forwards or young prospects within the organization.