Edmonton Oilers: Top 3 Affordable Goalies to Consider Before Trade Deadline

The Edmonton Oilers are exploring options for improving their goaltending situation as they approach the March 6 trade deadline. With minimal cap space and performance struggles from their current goalies, the team faces significant decisions. Recent games have highlighted the need for change, particularly after a disappointing 6-5 loss to the Anaheim Ducks.

Current Goaltending Challenges

The Oilers have been underwhelmed by Tristan Jarry, who has a 3.85 goals-against average (GAA) and an .864 save percentage (SV%) in 12 appearances since joining the team in December. This performance led head coach Kris Knoblauch to express dissatisfaction with the goaltending following the recent loss.

Connor Ingram, the other goalie on the roster, has shown slightly better performance with an .895 SV%, but still does not provide a reliable solution. The team traded Stuart Skinner to acquire Jarry and now finds that moving his $5.375 million contract could be a challenge.

Potential Trade Targets

If the Oilers aim to upgrade their goaltending, they are looking for affordable options due to their limited cap space of $10,000. Here are three goalies that could fit their needs:

• Jet Greaves (Columbus Blue Jackets)

  Age: 24
  2025-26 Stats: 37 GP, 2.62 GAA, .910 SV%
  Contract: $812,500, pending RFA

  Greaves has emerged as the starting goalie for Columbus in his first full NHL season. While he has been performing well, the Blue Jackets may opt to retain him due to their playoff aspirations.

• Casey De Smith (Dallas Stars)

  Age: 34
  2025-26 Stats: 22 GP, 2.31 GAA, .913 SV%
  Contract: $1 million through 2026-27

  De Smith has served as a solid backup for Dallas. However, the Stars may be reluctant to trade him to a division rival like the Oilers, although his availability may be dependent on their willingness to negotiate.

• Michael DiPietro (Providence Bruins)

  Age: 26
  2025-26 Stats: 30 GP, 1.76 GAA, .938 SV%
  Contract: $812,500 through 2026-27

  DiPietro, who went unclaimed on waivers before the season, has shown promise in the AHL. His successful track record could make him a viable option for the Oilers looking for a low-cost alternative.

Conclusion

The Edmonton Oilers are in a critical position as they look for affordable goalies to enhance their playoff prospects. The upcoming trade deadline will require strategic moves to address their current goaltending struggles while working within a tight budget. As discussions continue, the focus will remain on finding a player who can step up and stabilize the crease.