Odds are Quite High for the Oilers to Move their First-Round Pick This Year

PUBLICATION

Ryan Hall
September 11, 2023 (9:26)

SHARE THIS STORY

The Oilers are currently in a "win-now" mode, driven by a sense of unfinished business from last season. After performing admirably during the regular season and easily defeating the Los Angeles Kings, the Oilers believed they had a strong chance of advancing to the Stanley Cup finals through the Western Conference.

Unfortunately, that did not happen, as the Vegas Golden Knights emerged victorious in their series and claimed the Stanley Cup.

The Oilers are now on the verge of another season, with the training camp on the horizon. Many believe that the Oilers will offer their first-round choice in 2024 as a means to facilitate a trade that can strengthen their lineup and immediately improve their position.

According to Bob Stauffer, who had a conversation with Frank Seravalli of the Daily Faceoff, both of them share the belief that there is a 97% chance that the Oilers will trade their first-round draft pick this season, especially as the trade deadline approaches next March.

Trading a selection in the 25 to 32 range would provide another team with a player who could potentially join the NHL within a year or two, making the trade process smoother.

General Manager Ken Holland has already traded the last two first-round picks to bolster the lineup. As the Oilers continue to assess their "win-now" window and with the prospect of re-signing Leon Draisaitl on the horizon after this season, decisions will have to be made regarding whether the team can maintain its winning ways and contend for the Stanley Cup, or if restructuring or retooling is necessary.

Many decisions lie ahead for Holland and his management team.