Former Oiler Cody Ceci traded by San Jose Sharks to contending team

The Edmonton Oilers were actually linked several times to requiring their former defenceman in trade this season, now off the table that he's headed to Dallas.

The San Jose Sharks have reportedly dealt Cody Ceci packaged with veteran forward Mikael Grandlund to the Stars in return for a 1st round draft pick and a conditional 4th round draft pick.

The Dallas Stars are paying a premium price of a first round draft pick to acquire two rental players who aren't particularly on the high-end. This looks to be a great deal for the San Jose Sharks.

Oilers fans know Ceci well from the three seasons he spent in Edmonton between 2021-2024. In his time as an Oiler, Ceci played top four minutes alongside Darnell Nurse, creating a problem pairing for the team. In 54 games this season, Ceci has 4 goals, 15 points, and a -9 rating.

Mikael Granlund is a skilled forward having a good year in his age 32 season. With plenty of opportunity on the Sharks, Grandlund has put up 15 goals and 45 points in 52 games this season. He is likely the centrepiece of the deal, although the Stars can use Ceci on their blueline too.

Both players were pending free agents, meaning the rebuilding Sharks were looking to sell off their players for future assets.

With the 4 Nations Faceoff break coming up, it seems that multiple NHL teams are looking to make deals. It's very possible more trades could come in the next few days.