The blockbuster trade between the Buffalo Sabres and Chicago Blackhawks may have created another ripple effect around the NHL — one that could work in favor of the Edmonton Oilers if they continue exploring the market for Darnell Nurse.
Chicago acquired defenseman Bowen Byram and Jordan Greenway from Buffalo in exchange for the fourth-overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, the 45th overall selection, and defenseman Louis Crevier. The deal represented a massive price for a player who is expected to seek a contract north of $10 million annually on his next extension.
Byram’s Price Raises Questions
Byram is coming off the best season of his career after recording 11 goals and 42 points in 82 games while averaging more than 22 minutes per night. At just 25 years old, the former Stanley Cup champion has established himself as one of the league’s better young defensemen, which explains why Chicago paid a premium to acquire him despite reports suggesting he could command more than $10 million annually on his next contract.
While Byram’s upside is undeniable, Nurse offers a much larger body of work with 798 career games, 88 goals, and 324 points while consistently handling top-pair assignments against elite competition. Through their first 328 NHL games, Byram held the offensive advantage with 152 points compared to Nurse’s 107, but Nurse spent much of his early career on rebuilding Oilers teams while Byram entered the league on stronger clubs and in a more offense-friendly era.
While Byram’s offensive game continues to improve, his defensive impacts rank lower, reinforcing the value teams place on experienced, minute-eating defensemen. With Chicago paying a steep acquisition cost for Byram, the market has once again shown just how valuable top-four left-shot defensemen remain around the NHL — a development that could ultimately benefit Edmonton if trade discussions involving Nurse continue.
Chicago Paid a Heavy Premium
Not only did the Blackhawks surrender the No. 4 overall pick, but they also included another top-50 selection and a young defenseman. That’s a substantial return for a player who still needs a new contract and reportedly views himself as a $10 million-plus defenseman.
That type of transaction could force teams searching for defense help to reconsider what an established veteran like Nurse might be worth.
Unlike Byram, Nurse is already signed long term, has playoff experience, and has proven he can log over 25 minutes per game when required.
Flyers Emerge as Preferred Destination for Nurse
Trade speculation surrounding Darnell Nurse has intensified, and according to recent reports, both the Oilers and Nurse himself are open to exploring a move. Despite his $9.25 million cap hit, there is believed to be significant interest around the league in the veteran defenseman. With a full no-movement clause still in effect for one more season before converting to a 10-team no-trade list, Nurse remains in control of his future.
Philadelphia has emerged as Nurse’s preferred destination, largely due to family ties in the area through his uncle, former NFL quarterback Donovan McNabb. The Flyers are looking to continue building around their young core while adding experienced veterans, and Nurse’s physical style, leadership qualities, and ability to handle difficult minutes could make him an attractive fit on their blue line.
The Pittsburgh Penguins have also reportedly shown interest, with Kyle Dubas believed to be searching for more size and toughness on the back end. For Edmonton, the recent Byram trade may have strengthened their negotiating position. If Chicago was willing to pay a premium for a younger defenseman expected to command more than $10 million annually, the Oilers could argue that Nurse’s experience, track record, and long-term contract certainty carry more value than many around the league initially believed.
Next: Morgan Rielly Submits Trade List of 4 Teams To Maple Leafs, Who’s On It?
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