Edmonton Oilers front office interest in Montreal Canadiens forward Kirby Dach has drawn attention as NHL trade rumors persist into the early 2026 season. Dach carries a $3.6 million cap hit and remains in the final year of his contract, generating speculation that the forward could fill a depth role for the Oilers.
Edmonton Oilers Pursue Right-Shot Center Options
The Edmonton Oilers possess one of the most productive offensive attacks in the National Hockey League, yet general manager Stan Bowman continues evaluating moves for a right-shot center. Frank Seravalli of Sportsnet reported that both Edmonton and Calgary have checked in on Dach, who is playing out the final year of his current deal. Dach brings eight seasons of NHL experience across 307 career games, recording 137 total points with the Chicago Blackhawks and Montreal Canadiens.
Stan Bowman previously drafted Dach third overall in the 2019 NHL Draft while running the Blackhawks. That shared history creates a natural familiarity between the player and Edmonton’s current front office. Dach could slot into the second or third forward lines, providing immediate scoring depth if a deal materializes.
Montreal Canadiens Depth Drives Trade Speculation
Trade speculation surrounding Dach stems largely from the Montreal Canadiens possessing significant depth at forward and having yet to sign him to a contract extension. Bleacher Report writer Joe Yerdon included Dach on a list of six players likely to be traded, citing the forward’s arbitration-eligible status and $3.6 million cap hit. However, sourcing indicates that while teams have inquired about availability, Montreal has not formally placed the forward on the block.
Acquiring Dach would require far less asset capital than pursuing elite goaltending targets like Connor Hellebuyck. Even so, fan preference in Edmonton leans toward addressing immediate defensive and goaltending needs following shaky performances in the team’s opening contests.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kirby Dach and Oilers Rumors
Why is Kirby Dach a trade target for the Edmonton Oilers?
Edmonton is looking for a right-shot center to bolster its forward depth. Oilers general manager Stan Bowman drafted Dach third overall in 2019 with the Chicago Blackhawks, establishing a direct connection between the player and the front office.
What is Kirby Dach’s contract status with the Montreal Canadiens?
Dach is in the final year of his contract with a $3.6 million cap hit as an arbitration-level player. The Canadiens have not signed him to a new extension, which has fueled ongoing trade speculation.
What have reporters said about teams inquiring about Dach?
Sportsnet reporter Frank Seravalli noted that both the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames have snooped around Dach. Bleacher Report analyst Joe Yerdon also named Dach among six players likely to be traded given Montreal’s roster depth.
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