The Edmonton Oilers have made headlines as they approach the NHL trade deadline, sealing the deal for forward Trent Frederic from the Boston Bruins on March 4, 2025. This significant transaction unfolded as part of a complex three-team trade involving the New Jersey Devils, allowing the Oilers to bolster their roster with additional depth as they aim for another deep playoff run.
Frederic, standing tall at 6-foot-3 and weighing 221 pounds, has been playing his seventh season with the Bruins after being drafted 29th overall during the 2016 NHL Draft. So far this season, Frederic contributed eight goals and seven assists, accumulating 15 points over the course of 57 games. Anticipation surrounded Frederic's move, especially considering he is set to become an unrestricted free agent following this season.
Adding to the excitement, the Oilers didn't only secure Frederic; they also acquired depth winger Max Jones from the Bruins, alongside the rights to unsigned forward Petr Hauser. This strategic maneuver not only enhances the Oilers' offensive capabilities but also addresses their current team dynamics after the team reached the Stanley Cup final just last season.
The series of transactions began when the Bruins first traded Frederic—while retaining 50% of his contract salary—to the Devils for unsigned draft choice Petr Hauser. Frederic’s average annual value is set at $2.3 million, yet thanks to the salary retention, he will only cost the Oilers approximately $575,000 against their cap.
Meanwhile, the New Jersey Devils made out well by securing unsigned forward Shane Lachance from the Oilers, who played for Boston University this season and has had impressive numbers with 25 points arising from ten goals and 15 assists across 32 games. This trade seems to be part of the Devils' strategy to build for the future by adding young talent.
The specific details of the trades are staggering: The Bruins not only sent out Frederic but also traded away Jones and Hauser to the Oilers. For their return, the Bruins received defenseman Max Wanner, who was selected by Edmonton in the 2021 NHL Draft, as well as second and fourth-round picks for the upcoming drafts.
Current standings reflect the urgency and reasoning behind these trades. The Oilers, holding onto second place in the Pacific Division with a record of 35-21-4, are positioned as strong contenders this playoff season. Conversely, the Bruins are falling behind, currently sitting seventh within the Atlantic Division at 28-26-8, trailing by two points from the Detroit Red Wings for the second wild card spot. It’s becoming increasingly clear the Bruins' management is adjusting their objectives, leaning toward becoming sellers as the season progresses.
Frederic's considerable size and experience are expected to play pivotal roles for Edmonton. Analysts are already buzzing with anticipation of how he can fit within their lineup and contribute during the postseason push. Scott Lewis, a hockey analyst, commented, "Frederic brings size and experience, which will be invaluable to Edmonton’s playoff hopes." Meanwhile, the Oilers are likely banking on Frederic’s physical presence to help round out their skilled offensive strategy.
While Jones’ contribution this season has been minimal with no points recorded over seven games, his prior performance with the Anaheim Ducks justifies the Oilers' interest. He brings potential for growth, having previously scored 62 points through 265 career games spanning both the Ducks and Bruins. It appears the Oilers are not only making moves to win now but are also considering the future depths of their roster.
The league-wide scrutiny surrounding these trades sends waves through the NHL as fans eagerly await how these roster adjustments impact playoff races. From the excitement of Frederic's acquisition to the strategic depth added by Jones, the Oilers have demonstrated their willingness to improve at the expense of potential future picks.
Overall, as the Oilers and Bruins adapt their strategies with the trade deadline approaching, the significance of this moment resonates across the league. The Oilers are positioning themselves firmly along the competitive edge of the playoff race, just as the Bruins confront the reality of their dwindling aspirations this season. The ramifications of these transactions will surely set the tone for both teams' journeys as they navigate through the remainder of the NHL season and beyond.