Edmonton Oilers should target third-line forward options if they hope to go deep into the playoffs this season

The NHL trade deadline is approaching fast. Teams across the league are huddling in strategy meetings to identify roster needs and potential targets with roughly five weeks remaining until the March 6 deadline.

Some franchises will be sellers looking to replenish prospect pools. Others will be buyers chasing championship aspirations. For contending teams like the Oilers, the focus is on finding pieces that can elevate their playoff chances.

Speed and size is what Edmonton needs in their forward group

Edmonton has been identified by The Athletic's NHL staff as needing a specific type of player to bolster their lineup. The analysis points to third-line depth as the primary area requiring attention if the Oilers hope to make another extended postseason run.

The evaluation identifies speed and size on the third line as Edmonton's most pressing issues. Goal-scoring ability from a depth role would provide significant value, especially from a player who has proven capable of producing away from top-line minutes.

"Size and speed on the third line are the primary issues," said Allan Mitchell. "Goal-scoring ability would be a major asset, especially if the acquisition has had success scoring in a depth role."

The Oilers need a player who can provide energy and offensive punch without requiring deployment alongside Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl. Finding production from depth forwards becomes critical during playoff hockey when matchups tighten and scoring becomes harder to generate.

Bobby McMann of the Maple Leafs has surfaced as a potential target. The 27-year-old forward checks every box Edmonton is looking for in a third-line addition.

His skating ability stands out immediately. McMann's max skating speed ranks in the 99th percentile according to NHL Edge tracking data, providing the kind of foot speed that thrives in Edmonton's system. He has already scored 17 goals this season while carrying an expiring contract worth just $1.35 million.

"That's a value contract for a fast player who has size and can score," Mitchell said. "It's a perfect fit for Edmonton's needs."

The combination of speed, size, goal-scoring ability, and cost control makes McMann an ideal trade deadline acquisition for a team managing salary cap constraints while chasing a championship.

Edmonton sits second in the Pacific Division with a 28-19-8 record heading into the Olympic break. The Oilers remain in a strong playoff position and will look to add pieces that can help them advance deep into the postseason when the March 6 trade deadline arrives.


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