The Edmonton Oilers have finalized the acquisition of defenseman Jake Walman from the San Jose Sharks, bolstering their blue line as the trade deadline approaches. With the deadline looming less than 24 hours away on March 7, Oilers GM Stan Bowman has made the move to strengthen the team's defensive group, which has been one of their major concerns throughout the season.
This surprising trade will see Walman, 29, arriving at Edmonton after establishing himself as one of the Sharks' key players this season. He has registered six goals and 32 points over the course of 50 games, showcasing his offensive capabilities from the blue line. According to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, the deal involves the Oilers sending over a first-round draft pick, which is presumably for the 2026 draft, along with another prospect, though the latter will likely not be one of the top-tier prospects.
Walman's first season with the Sharks has been marked by notable performances, including 25 of his points coming at even strength and seven on the power play. His productive year has led to some impressive analytics as well, making him one of the more appealing options for the Oilers. "Walman has been informed he is being traded to the Oilers," Pagnotta reported, indicating the trade was nearly complete.
Despite not being linked initially with the Oilers prior to the deadline, Walman's right shot is expected to fit them perfectly, even though he primarily plays on the left side. This adaptability may allow for some creative adjustments within the team's lineups once he arrives. Notably, the Oilers are currently managing some injuries on their defensive roster. Mattias Ekholm and John Klingberg are both sidelined, adding urgency for Edmonton to acquire someone like Walman.
Walman has averaged 23 minutes and 11 seconds of ice time per game, leading all Sharks defenders this season. His advanced metrics include maintaining almost 50% CorsiFor% at even strength — marking him fourth on the team — and he has demonstrated reliability over the past months, including being on the ice for 30 goals for and 29 against during his time with the Sharks.
The trade's timing has raised questions about potential roster constraints. After completing their game against the Montreal Canadiens, the Oilers will need to make room for Walman on their roster. Emergency call-ups, including Cam Dineen and Max Jones, are likely to vacate their spots once Walman is officially announced.
From the perspective of those evaluating the trade, this move benefits both morale and competitiveness for the Oilers moving forward. With the skater now joining who has gained significant ice time and has proven to be reliable, the Oilers are putting their chips on him as they eye another deep playoff run this year. A former standout who began his career with the St. Louis Blues, Walman has worked to prove his worth after not becoming fully established until recently.
The competitive nature of the NHL only serves to add another layer of intrigue with this trade. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Walman fits within the Oilers' lineup, especially considering the team has been struggling with injuries and inconsistent performances as of late.
Further speculation around this trade includes the effect of Walman's addition on fellow defenders like Brett Kulak and Evan Bouchard, as Edmonton navigates these lineup logistics. Historically, good teams often add depth via such trades, and Oilers fans are understandably excited to see if this move pays off down the line.
With the potential for Walman's debut pending just around the corner, the Oilers will host the Dallas Stars on March 8 at Rogers Place, with fans hopeful to see their new defenseman on the ice. The prospect of integrating Walman — alongside elite forwards such as Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl — presents the Oilers with the opportunity to balance their offense and defense more effectively than earlier this season.
This trade could mark Walman’s new chapter with the Oilers as they prepare to contend for the Stanley Cup, adding to the excitement surrounding this year's league activities. Bowman’s maneuvering may prove to be the difference-maker as the Oilers look to re-establish themselves as championship contenders.