NHL trade news: Edmonton Oilers reportedly ask Darnell Nurse to waive no-trade clause as Stan Bowman navigates tough offseason decisions
The Edmonton Oilers are making significant waves this offseason. According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, general manager Stan Bowman has reached out to defenseman Darnell Nurse to explore whether he would consider waiving his no-trade clause.
Nurse, who remains under contract through 2030 with a $9.25 million average annual value, reportedly declined any trade opportunity.
Nurse, one of the longest-tenured Oilers, remains a fixture in the team's defensive core. However, his contract includes full no-trade and no-movement protections, leaving the decision entirely in his hands. While the conversation did not result in any immediate change, it is a notable indicator of the team's willingness to explore all options.
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Pressure from the Bouchard extension may influence the strategy
The timing of the discussion with Darnell Nurse is especially relevant given the Oilers' recent handling of Evan Bouchard's contract. As reported by Friedman and confirmed by Chris Johnston, the Oilers rushed to finalize a four-year, $10.5 million AAV deal with Bouchard after learning of a potential offer sheet from the Carolina Hurricanes.
With Bouchard now occupying a significant cap chunk alongside Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Nurse, the Oilers have nearly half of their salary structure tied up in just four players.
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Bowman's outreach to Nurses appears to be a direct consequence of this tight financial landscape.
Stan Bowman showing an aggressive
cap management
approach
Stan Bowman's first offseason at the helm of the Edmonton Oilers is quickly becoming one of proactive, even aggressive, cap maneuvering. The GM has already demonstrated his willingness to spend when necessary, as shown with the Bouchard contract. At the same time, he is also exploring potential exits for high-salary players like Darnell Nurse, even if unlikely.
As offseason moves continue across the league, all eyes remain on Edmonton. Whether further attempts will be made to move high-cost veterans remains to be seen, but it is clear that no contract is off-limits under Bowman's tenure; even if the final decision rests with the players themselves.
Also Read:
NHL trade rumor: Maple Leafs consider trading David Kampf, Calle Jarnkrok, and one defenseman amid offseason reshuffle
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