Oilers Linked to Potential Trade for Former Prospect Michael Kesselring
The Edmonton Oilers could be one of the NHL’s busiest teams this offseason following their disappointing first-round playoff exit against the Anaheim Ducks. With several areas of the roster needing upgrades, changes to the blue line appear likely during the summer.
One of the organization’s biggest concerns is the right side of its defense corps, especially if pending unrestricted free agent Connor Murphy departs in free agency. Even if Murphy returns, Edmonton may still pursue another right-shot defenseman to strengthen its depth and overall stability on the back end.
Because of that need, the Oilers have now been connected to a familiar name: Buffalo Sabres defenseman Michael Kesselring.
Oilers Encouraged to Reunite With Former Draft Pick
In a recent piece for the Edmonton Sun, columnist Jim Matheson suggested the Oilers should explore a trade to bring Kesselring back to Edmonton.
Kesselring, originally selected by the Oilers in the sixth round of the 2018 NHL Draft, never appeared in a game for Edmonton before being dealt to the Arizona Coyotes in 2023 as part of the Nick Bjugstad trade. Since then, the 6-foot-5 defenseman has carved out an NHL role and could now emerge as a viable target for the Oilers’ blue line.
Matheson noted that Kesselring may be frustrated with his current situation in Buffalo after struggling to secure a regular role during the postseason, potentially opening the door for a move this offseason.
Kesselring Could Fill Important Depth Role
A reunion between Edmonton and Kesselring would certainly be an intriguing development given the organization’s familiarity with him.
The 26-year-old right-shot defenseman could fit naturally into the Oilers’ bottom pairing while also providing competition for a larger role if he rediscovers the form he showed earlier in his career.
Kesselring managed only two assists in 34 games with Buffalo this season, but his previous production suggests there is still upside in his game. During his time with the Utah Mammoth last season, he posted career highs with seven goals, 22 assists, and 29 points. He also produced 21 points in 65 games with Arizona during the 2023-24 campaign, which marked his breakout season at the NHL level.
Given his size, mobility, and offensive flashes, Kesselring could represent a low-risk, buy-low option for Edmonton as it looks to improve defensively.
Oilers Expected to Pursue Blue-Line Help
Whether the target ends up being Kesselring or another player, Edmonton’s need for another right-handed defenseman appears clear heading into the offseason.
Several other potential trade candidates have already been floated as possible fits for the Oilers, including Rasmus Ristolainen, Colton Parayko, Braden Schneider, and Zach Whitecloud. Meanwhile, pending unrestricted free agents such as Darren Raddysh, Jacob Trouba, John Carlson, and Radko Gudas could also attract interest on the open market.
For now, Kesselring stands out as an especially intriguing possibility because of his history with the organization and the likelihood that Buffalo could be willing to move him under the right circumstances.
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