Edmonton’s front office is again probing the waiver wire and contemplating late-summer moves to deepen the roster after rolling the dice on Kasperi Kapanen and Alec Regula last season. The Oilers could pursue a handful of waiver targets or swing a September trade as insurance for depth at forward, defense, and goaltending.

Projected targets include goaltenders Mike DiPietro and Colton Ellis, plus forward options Samuel Fagemo and Matej Blumel, with William Villeneuve providing right-handed defensive depth. Matt Grzelcyk surfaces as the marquee UFA defenseman the Oilers could chase, potentially shaping a third pairing or power-play role. The piece also flags Colorado, Chicago, and Calgary as logical bidders should Grzelcyk hit the open market, while noting Edmonton’s cap constraints as it weighs deals and possible restructures.

The Springfield Thunderbirds faced a tough match against the Grand Rapids Griffins, ultimately losing 2-1 despite a strong effort. The Thunderbirds opened the scoring with a goal from captain Matthew Peca, but the Griffins responded with goals from Nate Danielson and Gabriel Seger.

Springfield struggled with penalties, giving Grand Rapids multiple power-play opportunities. T-Birds goaltender Colten Ellis performed well, stopping 21 of 23 shots, but the team couldn't capitalize on their chances in the final period.