Contrary to early reports suggesting mutual interest, only one party in the rumored trade talks between the Detroit Red Wings and Edmonton Oilers is in search of a starting goaltender—and it isn’t Detroit. The Red Wings, having already secured John Gibson from Anaheim in the offseason, appear well-set in net, leaving Edmonton as the franchise actively pursuing a No. 1 option.
Goaltending remains Edmonton’s most conspicuous liability. The Stuart Skinner–Calvin Pickard tandem has failed to inspire confidence, leaving the Oilers in a state of acute need. If reports of trade discussions with Detroit are to be taken at face value, the likeliest target is Cam Talbot—the only netminder on the roster plausibly available and capable of immediate impact. John Gibson, newly arrived from Anaheim, is immovable in both practicality and intent, while top prospect Sebastian Cossa is an ill fit for a club unwilling to endure developmental growing pains. This is, after all, a franchise operating under a Stanley Cup–or-bust imperative, one that has seen its ambitions collapse in consecutive seasons. Time is running dangerously short to present Connor McDavid with a compelling case for a max extension—if, indeed, such an opportunity has not already slipped away.
Could The Wings Move Cossa?
Admittedly, there is room for error in this assessment. Detroit could, in theory, part with Cossa, in which case he would immediately enter the conversation for Edmonton’s starting role next season. The outcome, however, would hinge on a razor’s edge. Cossa’s NHL résumé consists of a single appearance—relieving Ville Husso last December against Buffalo, turning aside 12 shots while surrendering two goals. It was a serviceable, if unremarkable, cameo—hardly the sort of data set upon which to stake a franchise’s fortunes. For Edmonton, such a move would represent either a high-risk, high-reward gamble or, in the darker scenario, a high-risk, high-humiliation miscalculation.
One way or another, Edmonton will be compelled to part with roster assets to secure either goaltender under discussion. Should Sebastian Cossa be the piece moving west, Mattias Ekholm could conceivably head to Detroit—a scenario in which the Red Wings would emerge as clear winners. At 35, Ekholm remains an impact defenseman, capable of materially strengthening Detroit’s blue line. He enters the final year of a four-year contract carrying a $6.25 million cap hit.
Other Potential Players In The Mix
Brett Kulak, 31, may also find himself in play. A steady presence for Edmonton over recent seasons, Kulak is likewise approaching the last year of a four-year deal, with a $2.75 million cap hit. From Detroit’s side, Justin Holl might be included to balance the equation, though even then the leverage tilts decisively toward the Red Wings.
If, instead, Talbot is moved, the return could take the form of a dependable depth forward such as Mattias Janmark. Detroit might have preferred Kasperi Kapanen—whose postseason was nothing short of stellar—but his recent contract extension renders that avenue implausible.
Even if the Red Wings decline to engage at all, their current trajectory already positions them as a legitimate playoff contender. Still, a modest infusion of blue-line muscle could provide a timely and tangible advantage.
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