Oilers Add Defensive Depth with Spencer Stastney Trade
So here’s one of those moves that might not dominate headlines, but it quietly says a lot about where a team thinks it’s headed. The Edmonton Oilers have added defenceman Spencer Stastney, picking him up from the Nashville Predators in exchange for a 2027 third-round draft pick. It’s a straightforward trade on paper, but when you look a little closer, it feels like a calculated bet on depth, reliability, and upside.
Stastney is still just 25 years old, yet he’s already built a respectable NHL résumé. This season in Nashville, he had been used regularly, appearing in 30 games and contributing one goal and nine points. His average ice time sat just under 15 minutes a night, which tells you he was trusted in a steady, supporting role rather than being leaned on as a top-pair option. That kind of usage often flies under the radar, but it also suggests consistency, something Edmonton has been actively seeking on its blue line.
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Originally drafted by the Predators in the fifth round back in 2018, Stastney’s path to the NHL wasn’t rushed. His debut finally came in April 2023, and since then, he’s been gradually worked into the lineup. Over 81 career NHL games, three goals and 18 points have been recorded, numbers that won’t jump off the page but do reflect a defenceman who can move the puck and chip in offensively when needed. It’s also worth noting that he’s currently in the second year of a two-year contract worth $1.65 million, carrying a very manageable cap hit of $825,000.
From Edmonton’s perspective, this looks like a low-risk move. A future third-round pick is sent out, and in return, a young, NHL-tested defenceman is brought in who can slot into the lineup or provide insurance if injuries strike. It’s the type of addition that’s often made quietly but can become important as the season grinds on and depth starts to matter more.
On the Nashville side, the focus is clearly shifting toward future assets. By moving Stastney, the Predators add yet another draft pick to what is already a well-stocked 2027 draft class. The organization now holds 11 selections that year, including four in the third round alone. That kind of draft capital offers flexibility, whether it’s used to select prospects or to fuel future trades.
In the end, this deal feels like a classic hockey trade where both teams address different needs. Edmonton strengthens its defensive options right now, while Nashville continues to build toward what’s next. It may not be flashy, but these are often the moves that quietly shape a season.
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