The Edmonton Oilers are set to trade veteran defenseman Darnell Nurse, and the impact of this move will be felt across their defensive corps. With Nurse's departure, several players are poised to step up and take on more significant roles. Here's an analysis of the potential replacements and the challenges they face.
Jake Walman: The Rising Star
Jake Walman, acquired in a trade last March, has quickly become a key component of the Oilers' defense. His seven-year contract at $7 million AAV ensures his presence in Edmonton until 2033. With Nurse's exit, Walman is likely to move up to the second pair, a role he should be able to handle.
However, Walman's performance against elite competition is a concern. Last season, he struggled against top-tier opponents, with a Dangerous Fenwick percentage of only 40%. This is where pairing him with Evan Bouchard could be a strategic move. Both players excel in puck-moving, and their combined goal share of 56% in 181 minutes over two seasons is impressive.
Connor Murphy: A Key Re-Signing Target
Connor Murphy, a veteran defenseman, is a top priority for the Oilers' management. His calm play elevated the second pairing during the season's final stretch. However, Murphy's performance against elite competition is questionable. In the 2025-26 season, he struggled against top-tier opponents, with a low Dangerous Fenwick percentage.
The Oilers' management must carefully consider Murphy's contract, as his numbers suggest he might not be a feature player. The team's goal share when Murphy was on the ice was only 50%, and his performance against elites was not impressive. The Oilers should be cautious about relying heavily on him.
Spencer Stastney: The Third Pairing Option
Spencer Stastney, a fine defender, is ideally suited for the third pairing and penalty killing. However, he may be asked to step up if Walman faces challenges or injuries. Stastney's performance against elite competition is concerning, with a low goal share of 2-9 in just 116 minutes. His overall goal share is respectable, but the Oilers' new coach will need to unlock his potential if he is to play a significant role.
Damien Carfagna: The Hidden Gem
Damien Carfagna, a rookie in the AHL, has displayed exceptional speed, mobility, and passing skills. His on-ice goal share at even strength in the minors is impressive, making him a strong candidate for an NHL role in 2026-27. While he is unlikely to become a feature player, Carfagna could be a valuable third-pairing option and a key recall option if injuries occur.
Atro Leppanen: The Unique Talent
Atro Leppanen, a Finnish defenseman, brings a unique style to the team. His strength lies in his offensive capabilities, but he can also play soundly defensively. Leppanen's performance in the AHL improved significantly after a chaotic start, and he could be a valuable asset for the Oilers' new coach.
Conclusion: A Balanced Approach
The Oilers' management must carefully consider their defensive options after the Nurse trade. Walman and Bouchard's pairing shows promise, but his performance against elites remains a concern. Murphy's contract and performance against elites are also critical factors. Stastney, Carfagna, and Leppanen offer depth and versatility, ensuring the team can handle various challenges. The key will be to find the right balance and maximize the potential of each player.
