NHL Prospect Pool Overview ’25–26: Edmonton Oilers Made Shrewd Moves To Get Top Prospects
The Edmonton Oilers’ prospect pipeline has been under scrutiny in recent years due to their all-in approach around stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. However, heading into the 2025–26 season, the organization has made calculated moves to retool its prospect pool, adding both depth and high-upside talent.
**Major Trade: Isaac Howard for Sam O’Reilly**
One of the biggest offseason headlines for Edmonton was the trade involving 2024 first-round pick Sam O’Reilly. The Oilers dealt O’Reilly to Tampa Bay in exchange for Isaac Howard, who had just wrapped up a stellar NCAA season, winning the Hobey Baker Award. Howard, a dynamic winger, tallied 52 points in 37 games and signed a three-year entry-level contract with Edmonton. He’s considered NHL-ready and immediately became one of the Oilers’ top prospects.
**Top Prospects: Savoie, Akey, and Howard**
Matthew Savoie remains the crown jewel of Edmonton’s prospect pool. Acquired in a trade with the Buffalo Sabres, he thrived in juniors and posted a strong showing in the AHL. Many expect him to push for NHL minutes in 2025–26.
Beau Akey, a skilled offensive defenseman, returned from a shoulder injury and is back to full strength. His puck-moving ability and skating make him a legitimate blue-line prospect.
Isaac Howard, with his elite scoring touch, adds to the team’s forward depth. His college performance signals top-six potential, and he may start the season in the AHL before pushing for a call-up.
**2025 Draft Class: Mid-Round Focus**
Without a first-round pick, Edmonton made the most of its mid- and late-round selections.
David Lewandowski, a gritty WHL winger with a powerful shot, was taken in the fourth round. He’s viewed as a sleeper pick with potential if his skating improves.
Aidan Park, selected in the seventh round, impressed scouts with his work ethic and two-way play in the USHL. Though a long shot, he’s seen as a valuable project player.
Asher Barnett, a physical defenseman from the US National Team Development Program, adds strength and versatility on the back end. He’s expected to play college hockey and develop over the next few years.
Other additions include Joel Määttä, a Finnish center known for his defensive play, and Daniel Salonen, a goaltender prospect with promising junior stats.
**Depth Beyond the Headlines**
While names like Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg are no longer part of the Oilers’ system due to trades and salary cap moves, the team has gained future flexibility. The current focus is blending NCAA stars, strong CHL talent, and solid AHL contributors to reinforce the core roster.
**Strengths and Weaknesses*
The Oilers’ system now features a strong group of forwards, led by Savoie, Howard, and Lewandowski. There is promising skill and offensive upside. However, the defensive pool beyond Akey is thin, and goaltending depth remains a long-term concern.
**Looking Ahead to 2025–26**
The upcoming season could see some key prospects take the next step:
* Can Savoie make the Oilers’ opening night roster or force a midseason call-up?
* Will Howard’s college scoring translate quickly to the pro level?
* Can Akey stay healthy and develop into a reliable defenseman?
* Will long-term projects like Park and Barnett show signs of NHL upside?
**Final Thoughts**
While Edmonton’s pipeline may not be the most loaded in the league, the front office has made shrewd decisions to address past shortcomings. The addition of NHL-ready talent like Howard, the progression of Savoie, and the return of Akey give hope that the Oilers can develop impactful contributors internally
The balance between winning now and building for the future seems more in sync than ever. If even two of these prospects hit their ceiling, Edmonton could gain valuable reinforcements without needing major cap spending. The 2025–26 season will reveal whether the retooled system pays dividends.
Leave a Reply