NHL Trade Rumors: 3 Blueline Trade Targets For The Oilers

The Edmonton Oilers are intensifying their search for defensive help, with NHL insider Elliotte Friedman and Caleb Kerney of The Hockey News spotlighting three potential trade candidates: Cam Fowler, Connor Murphy, and Matt Benning. 

Leading the list is Anaheim’s Cam Fowler, a 32-year-old veteran with over 980 games of NHL experience. 

Fowler would bring valuable minutes to the Oilers’ blue line. However, his $6.5 million cap hit and no-trade clause make a deal complex. 

Still, both Fowler and the Ducks appear open to discussing his future, with Friedman calling him “the one guy who’s out there.”

Matt Benning getting set for his first practice with the Leafs @TSN_Edge pic.twitter.com/OgtSD9ofM4

— Mark Masters (@markhmasters) November 1, 2024

Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Connor Murphy presents a more manageable option with a $4.4 million cap hit through next season, though he has a 10-team no-trade list. 

Murphy’s physicality and right-handed shot would meet an immediate need for Edmonton. With the Blackhawks’ recent additions of Alec Martinez and TJ Brodie, they could be open to moving Murphy closer to the March 7 trade deadline, especially if there’s interest from a team like the Oilers that needs defensive depth. 

“Chicago can afford to spare a defender,” Friedman suggested, given their improved blueline depth.

Oh my goodness, Connor Murphy. What a reverse hit. #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/Hn7uLSkd5b

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) October 16, 2024

Lastly, former Oiler Matt Benning, now with the Toronto Maple Leafs, offers familiarity and affordability with a $1.25 million cap hit. 

Benning’s right-handed shot and knowledge of Edmonton’s system make him a practical addition without heavy financial strain. 

However, the Oilers’ cap limitations could require creative structuring, possibly involving a multi-team trade, to bring in any of these three blueline reinforcements.

Photo Credit: Sergei Belski-Imagn Images