The Edmonton Oilers are still searching for consistency. And time is ticking. After a frustrating 5-4 loss to the San Jose Sharks on Saturday, the Oilers slipped to third place in the Pacific Division.
With the March 6 NHL trade deadline approaching, expectations are growing that Edmonton will look to add pieces to strengthen its roster for another deep playoff push. But one Oilers forward has made his stance crystal clear: he doesn’t want to go anywhere.
Oilers Forward Pushes Back on Trade Speculation
The player in question is veteran forward Adam Henrique. He’s in the final year of a two-year, $6 million deal. That runs through 2025-26, and his contract includes a full no-movement clause. Meaning he has full control over whether he stays or goes.
With Edmonton reportedly looking at ways to create cap space, Henrique’s name naturally came up in trade speculation, especially given his offensive struggles this season. He has just 2 goals and 8 assists in 46 games, a noticeable dip from last year’s totals of 12 goals and 15 assists in 81 games after the Oilers acquired him from the Anaheim Ducks ahead of the 2024 trade deadline.
Complicating matters further, Wednesday’s game against Anaheim marked Henrique’s first appearance since January 6. After spending time on long-term injured reserve with an undisclosed injury.
However, according to NHL insider Darren Dreger, Henrique has no intention of waiving his protection. “Adam Henrique doesn’t want to go anywhere and hasn’t told the Oilers he’s willing to waive trade protection. Team and agent confirm,” Dreger reported on X.
That statement effectively shuts down, at least for now, the idea of Henrique being moved before Friday’s deadline.
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Cap Flexibility vs. Stability
From a purely financial standpoint, moving Henrique’s $3 million cap hit would create valuable flexibility for Edmonton. The Oilers have been linked to potential upgrades on defense and possibly a top-six forward to support their core.
Clearing that salary could open the door for additional moves.
But with a full no-movement clause in place, any trade would require Henrique’s approval. And as of now, he’s not interested.
Since the Olympic break, Edmonton has won just one of three games. Defensive lapses and inconsistency have plagued them at times. Raising questions about what adjustments are needed before the playoffs.
With six days remaining before the cutoff, things can always change. But for now, Adam Henrique has drawn a clear line: he wants to stay in Edmonton.
