Even though the trade deadline has passed, rumors are still circulating, and the Edmonton Oilers are now being linked to a college free agent. Edmonton currently sits third in the Pacific Division and remains focused on making a deep playoff run.
However, according to NHL insider Jeff Marek, the Oilers have been connected to unsigned forward T.J. Hughes, a standout player from the Michigan Wolverines men’s ice hockey program.
Michigan Forward T.J. Hughes Emerges as Possible Oilers Target
Hughes is the captain of the Wolverines men’s ice hockey team. He has been one of the most productive players in college hockey this season, recording 50 points in 36 games, a performance that has drawn the attention of NHL teams, according to insider Jeff Marek.
Since Hughes went undrafted and is finishing his senior year, he will be free to sign with any NHL team once Michigan’s season ends. That makes him a notable name in the annual college free agent sweepstakes, where teams compete to sign top NCAA talent without giving up assets.
Hughes is widely viewed as a skilled offensive center and power-play specialist known for his strong hockey IQ and ability to find open ice, traits that could fit well with the Edmonton Oilers’ offensive style.
Marek’s report likely connects to Edmonton’s search for affordable, high-upside depth. As an undrafted free agent, Hughes would sign an entry-level contract, making him a cap-friendly option for a team that needs to manage its salary structure carefully.
However, Edmonton will likely face competition. Players with Hughes’ production typically attract interest from 10 to 15 teams, making the recruitment process highly competitive. The timeline for any potential deal will depend on how long Michigan’s postseason run lasts.
Oilers Monitoring Leon Draisaitl’s Lower-Body Injury
While speculation about Hughes continues, the Oilers are also monitoring the health of one of their biggest stars. In Sunday’s 3-1 win over the Nashville Predators, forward Leon Draisaitl left the game after being hit by Ozzy Wiesblatt and driven into the boards near the Nashville bench.
Draisaitl briefly returned for a couple of shifts but did not come back for the start of the second period.
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Head coach Kris Knoblauch revealed Monday that Draisaitl has a lower-body injury. Draisaitl visited a doctor Monday morning while the team skated, and there is currently no set timetable for his return.
For now, the Oilers will turn their attention to their next matchup against the San Jose Sharks on Tuesday.
