Oilers 2026 trade deadline target: Oliver Ekman-Larsson |
One defenceman that the Edmonton Oilers have been linked to is Oliver Ekman-Larsson.
Ekman-Larsson is one of the last remaining players in the National Hockey League who was a part of the Phoenix Coyotes (before the name change). He’s a well-travelled defenceman, as he was drafted sixth overall in the 2009 draft and has played for the Vancouver Canucks, Florida Panthers, and Toronto Maple Leafs, which is where the 34-year-old is currently playing.
The Swede is having a career renaissance of sorts. Back in his heyday, the left-shot defenceman was capable of scoring double-digit goals, reaching the 20 goal mark on two occasions, and commonly hitting the 40-point mark. However, the Coyotes bought him out, and Ekman-Larsson became a journeyman, winning the Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers in 2023-24.
In Daily Faceoff’s most recent trade board, they listed Ekman-Larsson as a name to keep an eye on, but with the Leafs continuing to struggle, it looks more and more like they’ll sell ahead of Mar. 6th’s trade deadline. With that being said, let’s take a look at Ekman-Larsson’s fit, his cap hit, and the cost of acquisition.
Oliver Ekman-Larsson’s fit
The Oilers’ biggest need is a defenceman to play in their top four. While Ekman-Larsson is a left-shot defenceman, he’s capable of playing on the right side and has done so throughout his career. In fact, Ekman-Larsson has been linked to the Oilers, as Frank Seravalli reported that they have interest in the 34-year-old.
Ekman-Larsson........