The Edmonton Oilers are facing a significant talent gap as they head into the new season, lacking a strong pool of prospects. Having traded away draft picks, their situation is concerning. Notably, both Matt Savoie and Sam O'Reilly are players to retain, as Savoie is prepared for NHL action while O'Reilly has potential to develop further. With a 50-man roster full of uncertain prospects, the Oilers must act swiftly to bolster their talent pool.

General Manager Stan Bowman has acknowledged the urgency to sign not only college prospects but also players from European leagues, targeting names like Grigori Kuzmin and Mac Gadowsky. Additionally, Connor McDavid's impending contract extension raises questions about its implications for the team's salary cap strategy, especially with a projected increase to around $104 million.