The Edmonton Oilers’ trade rumors continue to simmer this season, with prevailing talk suggesting the team could be looking to move a defenseman amid a surplus of bottom-pairing, depth blueliners. However, renowned insider David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period has indicated that another name might be on the block.
Specifically, Pagnotta singled out veteran center Mattias Janmark as a player who could play a major role in this season’s Oilers trade discussions. During a November 5 appearance on DFO Rundown, Pagnotta stated:
“Janmark’s name is out there as well, Tomasek. They’ve got some guys that they can potentially move around and juggle to free up additional cap space.”
Janmark, who is in the second year of a three-year, $4.5 million contract, carries a $1.45 million cap hit. Currently sidelined with an undisclosed injury, Janmark appears to have lost his spot on the team’s fourth line, making him a potential trade candidate.
With many NHL teams seeking center depth, Janmark could become an appealing option for those looking to strengthen their bottom-six forward group. This makes him one of the most prominent names circulating in the latest Oilers trade rumors.
The 34-year-old center has yet to play a game this season. Last year, he scored two goals and totaled 18 points across 80 games for Edmonton.
### Oilers Trade Rumors Focus on Clearing Cap Space for Returning Players
The Oilers face a significant challenge with the impending return of forward Zach Hyman this season. Hyman suffered a wrist injury during last spring’s playoffs that required surgery, sidelining him until mid-November.
At present, Hyman’s $5.5 million cap hit is on Long-Term Injured Reserve (LTIR). However, once he is eligible to return, the Oilers will need to free up enough cap space to accommodate his salary under the NHL’s salary cap.
This is where players like Mattias Janmark, and defensemen such as Troy Stecher and Ty Emberson, come into play as potential trade candidates. The team’s need to clear cap space is urgent, and options are limited.
According to PuckPedia, the Oilers currently have only $325,000 in available cap space, and this figure includes Hyman’s cap hit while on LTIR. Once Hyman returns and comes off LTIR, Edmonton will not have sufficient room to fit him into the lineup without making moves.
### Potential Outcomes for Janmark
While burying a portion of Janmark’s cap hit in the AHL could be a possible alternative, a trade might be the most practical route for the Oilers.
Unfortunately, Janmark could face a fate similar to that of Derek Ryan last season. Ryan was waived to make room for other roster additions at the trade deadline and ultimately opted to retire due to a lack of NHL opportunities.
Janmark might experience a comparable scenario, potentially landing in Bakersfield as a depth option if injuries continue to impact Edmonton this season.
As the Oilers navigate these roster and cap challenges, Janmark’s name is likely to remain a focal point in ongoing trade rumors. Fans will be watching closely to see how the team manages its lineup and cap space as the season unfolds.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/us/nhl/rumor-latest-oilers-trade-rumors-insider-adds-4-500-000-forward-new-addition-edmonton-s-trade-block
