The Edmonton Oilers might consider reacquiring defenseman Michael Kesselring from the Buffalo Sabres, as he has been a healthy scratch and there’s a prospect ahead of him. Kesselring reportedly isn’t happy, and the Sabres might consider trading him for a bottom-six forward in the offseason. The Oilers previously traded Kesselring to the Coyotes for Nick Bjugstad.
Another player the Oilers could target is Detroit Red Wings goaltending prospect Sebastian Cossa. The Oilers had interest in drafting Cossa in 2021 but the Red Wings moved up to select him. Cossa isn’t the starting goaltender for Grand Rapids in the AHL playoffs, and the Wings have also signed prospect Trey Augustine. While Cossa has only played one NHL game, he has significant AHL experience. The Oilers could potentially pair him with Tristan Jarry or another 1B goalie.
The San Jose Sharks have moved up to the second overall pick in the NHL draft lottery, marking their third consecutive year with a top-two selection. They previously drafted Macklin Celebrini and Michael Misa, and Will Smith in 2023. The consensus pick at No. 2 is winger Ivar Stenberg, who is already competing professionally in the SHL. However, the Sharks are already strong at forward and in goal, leading to speculation about other possibilities.
The Sharks might consider drafting a defenseman at No. 2. Other teams like the Canucks could be looking for a center, while the Blackhawks might be interested in Stenberg if he drops to No. 4. Defenseman prospects available could include Carson Carels, Chase Reid, and Keaton Verhoeff.
The free agent market for defensemen is somewhat limited, with players like Darren Raddysh and John Carlson being potential options. For forwards, Alex Tuch and Anthony Mantha are names to watch. On the trade front, the Dallas Stars might not extend Jason Robertson. The availability of forwards like Robert Thomas (Blues) and Matthew Knies (Maple Leafs), or defenseman Darnell Nurse (Oilers) is also being questioned.
The Blackhawks could potentially trade up from their No. 4 pick to secure the Sharks’ No. 2 overall selection. The Sharks also possess the Edmonton Oilers’ first-round pick.