Before the NHL Trade Deadline, the Edmonton Oilers executed a calculated maneuver by acquiring Adam Henrique and Sam Carrick from the Anaheim Ducks. The transaction, finalized on Wednesday, involved collaboration with the Tampa Bay Lightning, resulting in the Oilers retaining 75% of Henrique’s contract and 50% of Carrick’s. This financial maneuvering frees up space for Oilers’ GM Ken Holland to pursue another trade before the deadline on Friday.
Remarkably, the Oilers secured Henrique and Carrick without sacrificing any roster players, bolstering their forward depth while also creating room to address defensive needs. Holland is actively exploring options for a veteran defenseman who can fill a No. 7 role, emphasizing depth without compromising the existing roster.
Henrique, an impending unrestricted free agent with a $5.825 million cap hit, brings invaluable veteran leadership, playoff experience, and defensive skills to the Oilers. As a seasoned center, he is expected to elevate the team’s offensive prowess while significantly contributing to defensive stability. Carrick, on the other hand, enhances depth with his offensive capabilities and tenacity, providing relentless drive and physical engagement.
In addition to the acquisition, the Oilers traded a 2024 first-round pick and a conditional fifth-round pick in 2025, which could improve depending on Edmonton’s performance. Despite utilizing their 2024 first-rounder, the Oilers are actively seeking a depth defenseman without disrupting their current lineup.
With the addition of Henrique and Carrick, the Oilers have some financial flexibility, allowing for a potential annual cap hit of $1.16 million immediately or $1.22 million by the trade deadline. This newfound financial freedom raises expectations for further defensive upgrades, with Holland expressing interest in acquiring a veteran depth defenseman.
Although specific targets have not been confirmed, Holland is eyeing players like Joel Edmundson, Alexandre Carrier, David Savard, and Adam Boqvist. Some deals may require involvement from a third team, similar to the Anaheim trade where the Tampa Bay Lightning acted as a broker. If Holland can replicate such deals, including potential salary retention by other teams, the Oilers could make significant strides.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Oilers have positioned themselves as contenders through strategic acquisitions while actively participating in ongoing trade discussions, particularly focusing on strengthening their blue line for a deep playoff push.