NHL Rumors: Bob Stauffer reports Edmonton Oilers' 'inevitable' search for RHD, two forwards are possible trade fodder

The Edmonton Oilers have started the season strong, improving their record to 6-5-1 after a slow start. Forward Evander Kane is currently in recovery from injuries sustained during last season's playoffs. He could be back in the lineup by January 2025. However, Kane's return may lead to salary cap challenges for the Oilers. To accommodate his salary, they might have to consider trading a forward.

NHL analyst Bob Stauffer has reported that the Edmonton Oilers are likely searching for a right-handed defenseman (RHD). He believes this move is unavoidable and that the team will mostly use picks in the trade. Stauffer's comments come as the Oilers prepare for changes in their lineup, especially with forward Evander Kane set to return soon.

Kane is under contract for four years at $20.5 million, with a cap hit of $5.125 million per season. His contract will end at the conclusion of the 2025-26 season. When Kane comes back, it may lead to some adjustments among the forwards on the left side.

"It's inevitable the Oilers trade for a right handed shooting defenseman. We all know that's coming. I think it'll be picks, for the most part, that get used. One wildcard is when Evander Kane returns. Does he push a guy on the left side out of the mix? " Stauffer said.

Stauffer mentioned that Jeff Skinner could be a possible trade candidate. Skinner has a one-year deal worth $3 million, which makes him an option for teams looking for forward depth.

Another player to consider is Mattias Janmark, who is signed for three years at $1.45 million per season. Although Janmark is seen as a bottom-six forward, Stauffer believes Skinner might develop into a more important player for the Edmonton Oilers.

The Edmonton Oilers are now focused on making moves that will help them succeed in the upcoming games.

Edmonton Oilers shut out by New Jersey Devils in 3-0 loss at Rogers place

The Edmonton Oilers lost to the New Jersey Devils 3-0 at Rogers Place. The team struggled to create offense and was shut out. The scoring began early in the first period. Stefan Noesen put the Devils ahead 1-0 at 5:18. He scored with a shot that hit the right post. Earlier, Adam Henrique had a chance to score but hit the crossbar.

In the second period, Jesper Bratt made it 2-0 for the Devils. He scored a power-play goal at 16:34. He received a pass from Nico Hischier and shot from the slot. Timo Meier sealed the win for New Jersey with a breakaway goal at 9:25 of the third period. He skated in and shot past Oilers goalie Calvin Pickard.

Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch talked about the team's struggles after the game. He said, per NHL.com:

“There were mistakes, things we could have done better.”

He noted that they lost the special teams battle again and had missed scoring chances. This loss was disappointing for the Edmonton Oilers, who wanted to build on their recent win.