The Edmonton Oilers are actively surveying the trade market for a top-nine forward, but as Pierre LeBrun reported on TSN, it’s unclear if the team will priortize a winger or a center.

At the center of that discussion is Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and where he best fits in the lineup. Last week, Oilers management held meetings focused on their forward group, with particular attention paid to whether Nugent-Hopkins is more valuable as a winger or as a third-line center. If Nugent-Hopkins shifts back to center, Edmonton can target a winger. If he stays on the wing, the Oilers are forced to hunt for a true third-line center — a much scarcer and more expensive commodity.

As LeBrun noted, wingers are far more available than centers, who are prized for their ability to handle tough matchups, win faceoffs, and provide lineup insulation in the playoffs. For a cap-strapped Oilers team, chasing a center likely means paying a premium in futures or roster players.

Complicating matters further is the lack of clear sellers. Several teams remain on the playoff bubble, slowing the market and keeping prices inflated. At this point, only the Vancouver Canucks, New York Rangers, and Calgary Flames appear to be obvious sellers. With less than $1 million in cap space, Edmonton can’t afford to spend a lot and a lack of lesser expensive options means waiting until after the Olympic break for any significant discussions.

Still, potential fits are emerging. Columbus Blue Jackets captain Boone Jenner offers versatility, leadership, and a playoff-ready game. Nashville’s Ryan O’Reilly brings championship pedigree and elite two-way reliability, though he’d likely be a shorter-term solution. A dark horse is Calgary’s Blake Coleman, whose speed and forechecking could fit nicely if the Flames commit to selling.

More creative options exist, too. San Jose’s Kiefer Sherwood carries a manageable $1.5 million cap hit and could be flipped by the Sharks, though he’d be a rental. Eeli Tolvanen could become an option if Edmonton moves Andrew Mangiapane’s contract, while a reunion with Seattle captain Jordan Eberle would offer both familiarity and a compelling narrative if the Kraken sell.

For now, the Oilers are gathering information and waiting. Once Nugent-Hopkins’ role is settled and the market loosens, Edmonton is expected to move — but only when the right fit presents itself.

Next: Vancouver Canucks Deal Kiefer Sherwood to San Jose Sharks