Edmonton Oilers fans were buzzing with excitement as the NHL draft unfolded, but the buzz quickly turned to speculation as rumors began circulating that the team had asked Evander Kane to waive his no-movement clause.
While nothing is confirmed yet, insider Elliotte Friedman mentioned the possibility on his 32 Thoughts podcast, adding fuel to the fire of trade speculation.
Why Would the Oilers Make This Move?
The Oilers find themselves in a familiar predicament: a tight salary cap situation. With only $9 million remaining to fill eight roster spots, the Oilers need to get creative. Kane carries a significant cap hit of $5.125 million for the next two seasons. Moving him would free up a substantial amount of space to address other roster needs.
Kane, who joined the Oilers mid-season in 2022, has been a polarizing figure. While he’s capable of providing offensive firepower and a physical edge, his production has been inconsistent. A fresh start might be beneficial for both the player and the team.
Potential Destinations
Should Kane waive his no-trade clause, several teams could be potential suitors. Clubs with ample cap space and a desire for a scoring winger could be interested. The Utah Hockey Club, Buffalo Sabres, and Detroit Red Wings all fit that bill, although any deal would likely involve the Oilers retaining some salary or taking on a contract in return.
What Happens Next?
As of now, these are merely rumors. It remains to be seen whether Kane is willing to waive his no-movement clause and facilitate a trade. However, the fact that the Oilers are exploring this possibility highlights the team’s urgency to create cap flexibility.
The coming days and weeks will be crucial as the Oilers weigh their options and consider potential trade scenarios. Fans will undoubtedly be on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this developing saga.
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