The Edmonton Oilers remain focused on capturing their first Stanley Cup since 1990 while simultaneously preparing for crucial roster decisions heading into the 2025-26 season. As the offseason approaches, the team must navigate free agency strategically, with a key priority being the extension of Evan Bouchard’s contract, while reassessing defensive depth that could affect players like Ty Emberson’s future with Edmonton Oilers.
Ty Emberson’s Role and Performance This Season
Ty Emberson, 25, was acquired from the San Jose Sharks last season in exchange for a draft pick and Cody Ceci, primarily as a salary cap move by Edmonton. Although Emberson entered the NHL with limited experience, his defensive performance quickly drew attention from fans due to encouraging analytics. Serving mostly as a bottom-pairing defenseman, he participated in playoff games last season but has recently been sidelined with John Klingberg and Troy Stecher solidifying their spots on the blue line.
During this season, Emberson contributed two goals and 11 assists over 76 games, totaling 13 points and averaging 0.17 points per game. Across his NHL career spanning 106 games between the Sharks and Oilers, he has accumulated 23 points. His value lies in his strong defensive play, which made him a reliable presence when on the ice, though his place on the team faces uncertainty moving forward.
Emberson’s Standing Amidst Defensive Depth
While Emberson is a dependable defender who many NHL teams would welcome as a steady option on their bottom pair, the Oilers’ defensive depth is exceptionally strong right now. His chances to secure a regular roster spot are limited, especially with Klingberg and Stecher emerging as key contributors alongside Darnell Nurse. If Klingberg tests free agency and departs, Emberson might fill a seventh defender role, but even then, his position would not be guaranteed.
Trade speculation may increase during the offseason if the Oilers decide to re-sign Klingberg, as Emberson could generate valuable interest given his youth and potential. Although Emberson recently signed an extension, indicating willingness to remain with the team, the Oilers will have to prepare for all scenarios.
“There’s no reason to believe Emberson wouldn’t be open to a depth role, but the Oilers will have to plan for anything,”
according to reports.
Roster Management Challenges Facing Edmonton
Another option for the Oilers could involve moving veterans like Mattias Ekholm or Brett Kulak to maintain a younger defensive core centered around players like Emberson. However, the organization must weigh these decisions carefully, especially with the impending need to re-sign superstar forward Connor McDavid, which could impact their salary cap and roster flexibility. The balance between maintaining championship-caliber depth and managing contracts will be delicate this summer.
Looking Ahead: Importance of the Offseason for Oilers’ Success
As the 2024-25 postseason advances, the Oilers stand at a crossroads for their defensive lineup and overall team composition. How they address Ty Emberson’s future amid their defensive surplus, contract negotiations, and potential trades will influence their ability to remain competitive in pursuit of another Stanley Cup run. The decisions made in the coming months will shape Edmonton’s roster stability and depth for the 2025-26 season and beyond.