Oilers’ waiver strategy hints at major move!

The Oilers knew this time would come as, heading into November, Edmonton is considering multiple player movements. NHL insider Frank Seravalli recently told Oilers Now host Bob Stauffer that possible traded could take place, with defensemen Troy Stecher and Ty Emberson, along with forward Mattias Janmark as trade chips. The rumours have emerged with news that winger Zach Hyman and blue liner Alec Regula poised to return from injuries, and there is “zero chance” that the Oilers will place Regula on waivers.

Seravalli quickly ruled out the team waiving either Regula or forward Noah Philp, as he said both would be picked up on waivers by another NHL team if they were sent down. Stauffer also added there’s zero chance Oilers GM Stan Bowman would put Regula on waivers.

“Alec Regula has earned himself a spot in the Top 6 (on defence). In fact, I think the Oilers believe he can improve the Top 6 with his puck moving ability… He’s not going to be the odd man-out. Up front, Noah Philp would be claimed (on waivers) as well, and I think that’s the last thing (the Oilers) want to do. I think they’ve got a couple different options. I’ll be curious to see: Has Mattias Janmark run his useful (hockey) life in Edmonton? Is he a guy the Oilers would consider moving because he might be one of the easier ways to clear up salary cap space,” said Seravalli.

When you break down the cap hits, the Oilers’ choices become clearer and could be the deciding factor if two players offer similar on-ice value.

Emberson, 25, carries a $1.3 million cap hit for the next two seasons. Janmark, who's turning 33 in December, has a $1.45 million cap hit over the same period.

Stecher, 31, is in the final year of a $787,500 deal, while Regula, just 25, has a two-year deal at $775,000 per year. As for Noah Philp, who's 27, he is on a one-year $775,000 contract.

From a financial standpoint, retaining lower-paid players like Regula, Stecher, and Philp gives Edmonton more flexibility, an important factor if GM Stan Bowman wants to make a splash for a top player ahead of the 2026 trading deadline.

In other words, the Oilers are not just juggling talent, but are playing the long game, balancing cap space, roster depth, and potential acquisitions.

This is something to keep an eye on…