EDMONTON, AB – The Edmonton Oilers have officially bolstered their defensive lineup with the acquisition of defenseman Jake Walman from the San Jose Sharks, as announced on March 7, 2025. The trade, which is part of the league’s frenetic lead-up to the NHL trade deadline, sees the Oilers send forward Carl Berglund along with a conditional first-round draft pick for 2026 to San Jose.
This first-round pick is top-12 protected, meaning if it falls within the top 12 selections of the 2026 draft, the Oilers can choose to instead transfer their 2027 first-rounder to the Sharks. If Edmonton opts to trade their 2027 first-round pick before the upcoming 2026 NHL trade deadline, the condition is removed, and the 2026 first-round selection will transfer unconditionally.
For the Sharks, this transaction marks another savvy move by General Manager Mike Grier, who has effectively added valuable assets to the team's future. With Walman’s performance this season—he has recorded six goals and 26 assists, leading San Jose’s defensemen with 32 points—Grier has turned the player acquired from the Detroit Red Wings last June and combined with another second-round pick from Detroit for future consideration, now transforming him again to gain capital for the club's future.
Walman, who is 29 years old, has been instrumental for the Sharks this season, demonstrating his ability to take on significant ice time with time on ice averaging 23 minutes and 11 seconds per game. His contributions this season showcase his improvement as he has set career highs across various statistical categories en route to his current form, making him the focal point of the Sharks' blue line. Over his six-year NHL career, Walman has seen action with St. Louis, Detroit, and San Jose, accumulating 31 goals and 52 assists across 252 games.
The Oilers, trailing closely behind their fiercest competition for the playoff spots, see this trade as part of their strategy to not only solidify their defense but to make a serious push for the Stanley Cup this season. The Oilers recently also acquired center Trent Frederic from the Boston Bruins. Frederic’s addition is seen as another significant boost as the Oilers aim for their second consecutive Finals appearance.
On the other side of the deal, Carl Berglund, who was drafted late by the Oilers and played with the Bakersfield Condors, may now have the opportunity for NHL gameplay as he transitions to the Sharks’ roster. At 25 years old, Berglund has put together 12 points during the season, showcasing potential for development as he joins San Jose’s ranks.
This trade solidifies the Sharks’ draft strategy moving forward, giving them two first-round picks for consecutive drafts, presenting them with innumerous possibilities to bolster their lineup as they seek to reshape for future competitiveness. The addition of Berglund as part of this trade gives the organization added depth and youthful potential for the years to come.
Walman’s exit brings forth discussions about how the Sharks will fill the void left on their blue line as the roster continues to navigate what has been a tough season. With their current standings, any added assets like first-round picks could very well be the stepping stones to renaissance for the Sharks in future Federated National Hockey League seasons.
Looking back, Walman has left his mark on the Sharks, especially being the fastest defenseman to reach the 20-assist mark this season. His contributions alongside veteran leadership on the ice have been pivotal, marking this trade momentous for both franchises at the dawn of the playoffs.
This report highlights the dynamic nature of trade season within the NHL, showcasing how teams look to maneuver through conditions of player performance and future potential as they gear up for the climax of hockey's annual championship lore. The Oilers may find themselves more competitive, anchored by Walman's addition as they aim for the coveted Cup, whilst the Sharks look toward rebuilding their identity with new prospects coming to light.