The players might be on break, but the Edmonton Oilers’ management group is likely still hard at work. The amount of time from the gold medal game until the trade deadline is a shorter period than you would think, so general managers are surely scheming up what their moves could be a little early, while the roster freeze is in place. One player the Oilers should keep their eye on, that many have probably ruled out, is St. Louis Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington.
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It hasn’t been the 2025-26 season Binnington dreamed up for himself so far. He has posted a career-worst 3.65 goals-against average (GAA) and .864 save percentage (SV%) through 32 starts. It is out of character for a guy who has proved to be a lights-out winner and was usually capable of stealing a game or two for his team. While it has been a rough go, it doesn’t mean the Blues can’t still move him. And the Oilers should be first in line if that’s what they choose.
Binnington Is a Proven Winner
Looking back at some brighter days for the Blues goalie, we all remember the brick wall Binnington was in his team’s run to the 2019 Stanley Cup. He put up a .914 SV% and 2.46 GAA across 26 starts in those playoffs. Those numbers are from a few years ago now, but he has proved he can step up on the biggest stage. He showed that at last season’s 4 Nations Face-Off when he backstopped Canada to victory in that tournament.
No doubt this season is a black mark on Binnington’s record, but it’s one on an otherwise impressive resume. Just last season, he had a .900 SV% and helped a young Blues team reach the playoffs. This season’s team has been injury-plagued and just hasn’t captured the same magic they did last season. He could turn things around, or at least improve, should he surround himself with a more competitive team.
Olympics Are a Big Test
The 2026 Winter Olympics could be a turning point for Binnington this season. Whether he is dealt or not, this is his chance to prove his value and ultimately solidify himself as the franchise goalie he has been for the past half-decade. You could say the Games could have the opposite effect as well, but we’re hoping for the best here.
It’s a big test for Binnington, but it’s not the end-all be-all for him. His value won’t drop anymore if the next few weeks don’t go his way. Another year of control on his contract and his history are enough for the Blues to move him, and it’s something the Oilers should be focusing on.
Oilers Have Assets and Goalie Questions
If the Oilers were to consider a move for Binnington, I believe it’s very possible in terms of what they have to offer. Tristan Jarry would be a player to potentially be involved in the deal, despite his short tenure in Edmonton. He has been a bit shaky and doesn’t have the resume Binnington does, not to mention the cap hits are very similar. Neither goalie has had their ideal season, but I’m leaning towards the Blues’ goaltender for a playoff win.
Jarry was injured for an extended period this season and had to endure a trade, so ideally, he bounces back, and the Oilers don’t need to make another deal in net. However, if the right opportunity arises for someone like Binnington, they may want to listen.
The Oilers also have draft capital they should be willing to offer. They have a second and third-round pick this year, and both of their first and second-round picks in 2027 and 2028. Being a team in win-now mode, those need to be expendable at the deadline.
We will see what the 2026 Trade Deadline brings, but first, let’s enjoy some Olympic hockey.
