The NHL offseason has looked like NHL trade deadline week with trade rumors swirling like a summer tornado. One of the most intriguing rumors involves the Edmonton Oilers and the Nashville Predators.
With Evander Kane expected to land on long-term injured reserve (LTIR), the Oilers suddenly have some cap flexibility, and new GM Stan Bowman seems ready to make a splash.
Bowman’s Bold Move: Oilers Target Predators’ Duo in LTIR Shuffle
Nashville’s Dante Fabbro and Philip Tomasino have been popular names in the rumor mill all summer. Meanwhile, the Oilers, having recently traded Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway to St. Louis, are in the market for reinforcements.
The speculated deal would see Fabbro and Tomasino heading to Edmonton in exchange for prospect Max Wanner, a 2025 second-round pick (originally belonging to St. Louis), and a 2026 third-round pick.
Breaking Down the Potential Trade
For the Oilers:
Acquiring Fabbro and Tomasino would address some key needs for the Oilers. Fabbro, a reliable right-shot defenseman, would add depth and stability to the blue line. Tomasino, a promising young forward with offensive upside, could provide a much-needed scoring punch to the Oilers’ middle-six.
This trade makes even more sense considering Edmonton’s recent departures. Broberg and Holloway, while talented, were expendable assets given the Oilers’ current roster construction and future plans.
For the Predators:
From Nashville’s perspective, this trade represents a chance to replenish their prospect pool and acquire valuable draft capital. Wanner, a shutdown defensman with high potential, could become a key piece of the Predators’ future. The additional draft picks provide further flexibility for future trades or to select promising young talent in the upcoming drafts.
The LTIR Factor & Bowman’s Calculated Gamble
The Evander Kane situation has undoubtedly played a significant role in these rumors. Kane’s LTIR designation frees up cap space for the Oilers, allowing them to pursue players they otherwise couldn’t afford. Bowman, known for his shrewd maneuvering, is likely looking to capitalize on this opportunity.
However, it’s important to remember that the LTIR is a temporary solution. When Kane returns, the Oilers will need to make further roster adjustments to remain cap compliant. This trade, therefore, represents a calculated gamble for Bowman. He’s betting that Fabbro and Tomasino can make a significant impact in the short term, helping the Oilers contend for the Pacific Division title while Kane is sidelined.
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