The Edmonton Oilers are gearing up for what could be one of their busiest offseasons in recent memory. According to insider Bob Stauffer, the team has set its sights on NY Islanders forward Jean-Gabriel Pageau as a major trade target.
On a recent episode of his podcast 'Oilers NOW with Bob Stauffer’, the analyst noted that the Islanders are undergoing a shift in leadership with long-time GM Lou Lamoriello stepping aside and Mathieu Darche stepping in. That change could open the door for Pageau who carries a $5 million cap hit with just one year left on his deal, to become available.
Pageau, as a decent right-shot center, would add much-needed depth to the Oilers’ third line. The 31-year-old played in 79 games last season, tallying 14 goals and 28 assists for 42 points along with a plus-4 rating.
“This year, he was at 59 percent in the faceoff circle. The Oilers, this is something they lack. They don't have a reliable faceoff guy. Derek Ryan is essentially a 15th or 16th forward at this point. Noah Philp isn’t quite ready yet. So, could the Oilers look outside the organization? Maybe,” Stauffer said.
Stauffer hinting at JG Pageau(?) for next year pic.twitter.com/RSNUb2piVk
— OilersDaily (@alloilersdaily) June 12, 2025
Known for his two-way play and playoff experience, Pageau has spent his entire career with just two organizations, the Ottawa Senators and the Islanders since being drafted in the fourth round in 2011.
Stauffer mentioned that the Oilers currently don’t have a ready-made player like Pageau within their AHL ranks. Prospect Noah Philp still needs more time to develop in Bakersfield. With the Islanders exploring change and the Oilers needing cap flexibility to re-sign Evan Bouchard, Pageau could be a strong fit if Edmonton is willing to part with players or picks.
Oilers vet Viktor Arvidsson reportedly to waive his no-move clause
Meanwhile, veteran winger Viktor Arvidsson appears to be on his way out. After a disappointing season and being scratched during the playoffs, Oilers insider Jason Gregor reported that the team will ask Arvidsson to waive his no-move clause and he is expected to agree.
At 32, Arvidsson has 613 NHL games under his belt but managed just 15 goals and 27 points in 67 games this season which was one of the lowest outputs of his career. With no role on the power play and struggles fitting into the Oilers' top six, both sides may benefit from a fresh start.
“My understanding is that won't be a huge hurdle. I could see a trade that benefits both parties. Edmonton frees up some cap space and Arvidsson goes to a team where he will play more,” Gregor said.
Trading Arvidsson would clear $4 million from the books and give Edmonton room to re-sign Bouchard, keep Corey Perry and explore upgrades.
New faces like Matthew Savoie, Sam O’Reilly, and David Tomasek are also pushing for NHL spots, which adds more urgency for roster retooling.
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