Vladimir Tarasenko could give Mike Babcock another proven scorer if Edmonton decides to spend part of its remaining cap room before camp.
Stan Bowman has indicated the Oilers are comfortable preserving flexibility, but if another addition comes, forward is the position he would be most likely to address.
Tarasenko carries the strongest offensive résumé among the remaining options. He finished last season with Minnesota at 23 goals and 47 points.
That production could fit Edmonton's middle six immediately. Tarasenko still owns a dangerous release, and playing behind Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl would remove some of the pressure to drive his own line.
Reilly Smith offers a different profile. The 35-year-old produced 16 goals and 26 points in 69 games while showing he can still contribute from a reduced role.
Eeli Tolvanen may be the most intriguing long-term fit. The 27-year-old recorded 36 points and 187 hits last season, combining secondary scoring with a heavier edge Edmonton could use.
Curtis Lazar represents the cheaper, familiar route. He played 45 games for Edmonton last season and finished with 6 points while handling a depth assignment.
" If Edmonton does decide to add to its forward core, it could be before the season or in training camp, or it could even be while the season is underway. Regardless of when, Bowman has options of a few forwards who I believe fit the bill of what the Oilers could need this season. " - Jackson S.
Oilers eye major forward addition as Stan Bowman looks to reshape middle six
None of those names comes with a reported Edmonton negotiation. They are available options at a position Bowman has already identified as the most logical place for another move.
Tarasenko would carry the biggest offensive upside, but likely at the highest price. Edmonton would have to decide whether another veteran scorer is worth reducing the flexibility Bowman has worked to maintain.
Smith could make sense if his market drops. His experience and ability to move around the lineup would give Babcock another winger without demanding a major offensive role.
Tolvanen brings a younger option and could interest more teams because he isn't simply a short-term veteran addition. That competition could make his price harder for Edmonton to manage.
Lazar would be the least dramatic move, but sometimes that matters. A lower-cost fourth-line signing would let Bowman strengthen the bottom six while keeping room available for a bigger in-season transaction.
The Oilers don't need to sign someone just because useful forwards remain available in August. Their cap space has value once injuries, roster battles and early-season problems start changing the trade market.
But if Bowman decides Edmonton needs one more winger before puck drop, Tarasenko gives him a legitimate scoring option without requiring a trade. The question is whether that immediate upgrade is worth sacrificing flexibility later.
Source : 4 Remaining Free Agent Forwards the Oilers Should Target
Should Edmonton spend its remaining cap flexibility on Vladimir Tarasenko?
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