When the Vegas Golden Knights acquired forward Anthony Mantha from the Washington Capitals for a pair of draft picks, it broke the proverbial ice for the trade deadline. Finally! We had a move by an aspiring playoff team, boosting their wing position.
But, wait, there's more! The Vegas Golden Knights got Noah Hanifin from the Calgary Flames. The Golden Knights are also working on a contract extension with the defenseman, with hopes of locking up the 27-year-old long-term.
However, the Golden Knights's division rival, Edmonton, made their own moves. The Oilers acquired forwards Adam Henrique and Sam Carrick from the Anaheim Ducks. Tampa Bay retains 25% of Henrique's contract while Anaheim retains 50% of Henrique's deal and Carrick's deal.
The Edmonton Oilers also got goaltender Ty Taylor and a 2024 7th-round draft pick. Meanwhile, the Anaheim Ducks got a 2024 1st-round pick and a 2025 conditional 5th-round pick. As for Tampa Bay, they get a conditional 2025 4th-round pick.
How Does This Affect the Vegas Golden Knights?
The Edmonton Oilers added two depth pieces at forward, making them more well-rounded on offense. Adam Henrique has 18 goals and 24 assists this season, adding much-needed offense to a top-heavy Oilers team. The center is also a consistent shooter, only yielding a shooting percentage less than 14% twice in the past decade.
As for Sam Carrick, he's more of a depth piece for the Oilers. The native of Markham, Ontario, has eight goals and three assists this season. General manager Ken Holland was aiming for more depth at the position, not going for the likes of Frank Vatrano and Jake Guentzel.
But what about the Vegas Golden Knights? While the Oilers are making quieter moves, the Golden Knights are competing in an arms race with the Colorado Avalanche. The Avalanche have acquired forward Casey Mittelstadt and defenseman Sean Walker, giving them key pieces in their pursuit of another Stanley Cup. The Golden Knights and Avalanche are going bold, doing whatever it takes to win another Stanley Cup.
Still, the Oilers will be a threat against the Golden Knights. Any team with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl will earn that distinction, having the best top line in hockey. Even with the quieter moves, Edmonton will give the Golden Knights their toughest challenge with their newfound forward depth.