NHL Insider Links Oilers to Predators’ McCarron in Potential Trade Deadline Deal
With the NHL trade deadline approaching, the Edmonton Oilers may look to bolster their depth at center with a physical presence. According to Daily Faceoff’s Frank Seravalli, Nashville Predators forward Michael McCarron could be a strong fit for their bottom six. He proposed a trade scenario where Edmonton would send a 2026 second-round pick to Nashville in exchange for the 6-foot-6 center.
A key factor influencing the Oilers’ deadline moves is Evander Kane’s injury status. If Kane remains on the active roster instead of going on long-term injured reserve (LTIR), Edmonton will have limited cap flexibility. This would likely necessitate a dollar-in, dollar-out trade unless they move a high-salary player like Jeff Skinner or Viktor Arvidsson, both of whom have no-trade protection.
Seravalli suggested the Oilers target a player with a lower cap hit, making McCarron a logical choice.
McCarron Brings Physicality and a Playoff Mindset
While Edmonton has been searching for a speedy fourth-line center, McCarron offers a different skill set. He isn’t known for his scoring, but with offensive firepower already in place, the Oilers might benefit more from his size, toughness, and playoff-ready style of play. Seravalli compared McCarron’s presence to former Oiler Zack Kassian.
If the Oilers need to make a move without much cap space, McCarron could be a cost-effective option. His physical play adds a new element to the roster, and with the Predators likely sellers, acquiring him could be a practical deadline move. Additionally, McCarron isn’t just a rental—he’s under contract for another season at an affordable $900,000.
