Trade talks are getting active in the NHL as the Edmonton Oilers and the Toronto Maple Leafs are again being linked to possible deals for top defensemen.

NHL insider David Pagnotta said both teams are trying to improve their defense before the offseason. He added that several well-known players are now part of trade discussions.

According to Pagnotta, the clubs looked into a possible deal before the trade deadline. Those discussions could be rekindled in the coming months, with Morgan Rielly, a key defenseman for the Toronto Maple Leafs, grabbing the headlines.

While the 32-year-old is still important, the team is considering major changes. New GM John Chayka has insisted that the team must improve its defense and playoff performances after repeated struggles in pressure situations.

2026 was a new low, as the Maple Leafs missed the playoffs for the first time since 2016.

On the other hand, murmurs regarding Darnell Nurse of the Edmonton Oilers have emerged. His big contract and inconsistent form have raised questions. The 31-year-old signed an eight-year deal till 2029-30 valued at $74 million. If the Oilers intend to free up cap space and strengthen their defense, Nurse's exit might prove crucial.

However, his no-move clause and connection with captain Connor McDavid and forward Leon Draisaitl could become a roadblock.

As per Pagnotta, the San Jose Sharks could be a potential new home for Nurse. The organization has entered the offseason with a projected cap space of $41.5 million, second only to the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Aiming to add veteran guile to their squad, the Sharks are one of the few teams that could take Nurse.

The Edmonton Oilers have endured an inconsistent season. After suffering a first-round playoff exit, coach Kris Knoblauch was shown the door. And besides hunting for a new coach, the team aims to hold its star players more accountable.

Both squads could undergo signifcant shake ups across the whole squad.

Other Defensemen from Maple Leafs and Oilers To Watch in Trade Talks

Besides Rielly and Nurse, the Maple Leafs and Oilers also have other defensemen who could be part of future changes. Pagnotta believes that the Toronto Maple Leafs could look at Brandon Carlo as a possible trade.

Meanwhile, the Edmonton Oilers may consider shipping off Jake Walman, who recently signed a long-term deal but has struggled with form and health. Ty Emberson is another name to watch since he has no trade protection and could play a bigger role or be moved. His exit could allow the team to integrate other players into the squad.

Any move involving these players could change how both teams build their defense for next season.

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Written by

Kapil Manghnani

Edited by

Sijo Paul