What happened: The New York Times raised the question of whether the Edmonton Oilers can use their minor league system to build trade value over the course of the season. The framing follows a summer in which Edmonton weighed draft picks, roster needs and trade options ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft.

Why it matters: Developing assets in the minors before flipping them at the deadline or in offseason deals is a common roster-building lever, and the Oilers have already been active reshaping their depth chart this offseason. Edmonton signed Alex Formenton to a one-year deal and added Misha Donskov as a coaching consultant, moves that reflect a broader effort to retool the organization heading into 2026-27.

What to watch: Watch how the Oilers allocate roster spots between the NHL club and its AHL affiliate once training camp begins, and whether any minor league assets get moved before or during the season.