NHL Trade Rumors: Oilers’ $74M D-man gets linked to Sharks
The Edmonton Oilers could again explore moving veteran defenseman Darnell Nurse this NHL offseason after another frustrating playoff collapse intensified pressure on the organization. Speaking on the DFO Rundown, NHL insider David Pagnotta revealed Edmonton previously discussed a major trade framework involving Nurse, Morgan Rielly, and Nicolas Roy before the trade deadline in March. “But the primary pieces at the time before the trade deadline, the week of, was Darnell Nurse in a deal that involved Morgan Rielly and Nicolas Roy,” Pagnotta said.
MORE: NHL analyst blasted over Connor McDavid is ‘gone’ prediction Pagnotta added that the Oilers revisited discussions after Roy was moved elsewhere, but Toronto declined again. Now, he believes Edmonton may look toward another potential destination. “On Edmonton’s side, I’m looking at San Jose as another potential fit for Darnell Nurse,” Pagnotta said.
“They’ve got a lot of money. They want a veteran presence back there. It’s quieter.
He can get out of the spotlight. ” The speculation comes after Edmonton’s disastrous 2025-26 campaign ended with a first-round playoff loss to the Anaheim Ducks. The early exit eventually cost head coach Kris Knoblauch his job and pushed management toward another roster reset.
Darnell Nurse contract remains major challenge for Edmonton Nurse’s contract remains one of the biggest hurdles in any potential deal. The 31-year-old carries an $9. 25 million cap hit through the 2029-30 season as part of his eight-year, $74 million contract.