The Edmonton Oilers head into the offseason with plenty of tough questions after a disappointing playoff exit in 2026. With pressure building to make the most of Connor McDavid’s championship window, general manager Stan Bowman is expected to be aggressive in exploring roster upgrades.
That task may have become more difficult, however, as four teams have reportedly joined Edmonton in the pursuit of a $65 million trade target.
Race Heats Up for Oilers’ $65M Trade Target
One player generating significant interest around the league is St. Louis Blues forward Jordan Kyrou. With five years remaining on his eight-year, $65 million contract, Kyrou has emerged as one of the NHL’s most intriguing trade candidates this summer.
The 28-year-old is coming off a frustrating 2025-26 campaign under Blues coach Jim Montgomery. After posting three straight 30-goal seasons, Kyrou struggled to find his rhythm in Montgomery’s system, finishing with just 18 goals and 46 points in 72 games.
Despite the down year, his talent remains undeniable. Kyrou’s elite speed and ability to create offense off the rush could make him an ideal fit alongside either Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl. A change of scenery in Edmonton could be exactly what he needs to rediscover his scoring touch while giving the Oilers the secondary offense they lacked during their early playoff exit.
The challenge for Edmonton is that the competition is growing. As NHL insider Bruce Garrioch noted, “This is the guy the Senators likely need the most, but the belief is he won’t waive his no-move clause to come to Ottawa. Likely have to look elsewhere. The Seattle Kraken, Utah Mammoth and New York Islanders are interested.”
With multiple teams reportedly monitoring the situation, the competition for Kyrou could quickly drive up the asking price.
Even after a disappointing year, St. Louis is expected to demand a significant return for one of its most talented forwards.
A realistic package could include a future first-round pick, an established NHL player capable of contributing immediately, and a high-end prospect to help support the Blues’ ongoing retool.
One factor that could dramatically impact negotiations is Kyrou’s full no-move clause. If he decides Edmonton is his preferred destination because of the opportunity to play with McDavid or Draisaitl and compete for a Stanley Cup, he could significantly strengthen the Oilers’ position.
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Should Kyrou inform St. Louis that Edmonton is the only team he is willing to join, the Blues would lose much of the leverage created by competing offers from New York, Seattle, and Utah, potentially forcing them to negotiate directly with Bowman.
For now, the situation remains fluid, and Kyrou’s decision could ultimately determine where this offseason’s biggest trade story goes next.
