Mar 4, 2025; Buffalo, New York, USA; San Jose Sharks defenseman Jake Walman (96) waits for the face-off during the second period against the Buffalo Sabres at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images

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Edmonton Oilers Acquire Jake Walman from Sharks in Blockbuster Trade

Edmonton Oilers strengthens blue line by landing Jake Walman from San Jose in exchange for a first-round pick and a top prospect.

The Edmonton Oilers have bolstered their defense by acquiring Jake Walman from the San Jose Sharks. In return, the Sharks receive a conditional first-round pick for 2026 or 2027, along with AHL forward Carl Berglund, who has posted 12 points in 45 games this season.

Walman has been one of San Jose’s top-performing defensemen, leading their blue line with six goals and 32 points in 50 games. Averaging over 23 minutes of ice time per night, he has maintained solid possession numbers, ranking fourth on the team with a 49.4% CorsiFor% at even strength. His offensive production has leaped this season, putting him just seven points shy of matching his career-best total from his time with the Detroit Red Wings. While he has logged more ice time in San Jose, his improved numbers are a promising sign for Edmonton.

Jake Walman is officially a member of the @EdmontonOilers! 🔵🟠 #NHLTradeDeadline pic.twitter.com/RodTJm04O3
— NHL (@NHL) March 7, 2025

Walman is expected to slot right into the Oilers’ top-four defensive rotation alongside Evan Bouchard, Mattias Ekholm, and Darnell Nurse. Though a right-shot defenseman might have been preferable, Walman has experience playing on his off-side, making him a versatile option for Edmonton’s blue line. This also allows the team to configure its bottom pair, which includes Brett Kulak, John Klingberg, Ty Emberson, and Troy Stecher.

Also Read: Brock Nelson Traded to Colorado Avalanche from New York Islanders

One concern is Walman’s limited playoff experience. Despite seven NHL seasons under his belt, he has played in only one postseason game, back in 2021 with the St. Louis Blues. However, with the Oilers fresh off a deep playoff run to Game Seven of the 2024 Stanley Cup Final, he will have plenty of experienced teammates to help guide him through a potential postseason push.

Beyond his immediate impact, Walman also brings financial flexibility. He is signed through next season at a reasonable $3.4 million cap hit, providing stability on the back end as Edmonton navigates future contract negotiations, including a new deal for Bouchard. This move strengthens the Oilers’ defense while keeping their championship aspirations firmly in focus.

Image Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images

Edmonton Oilers

NHL

San Jose Sharks

Anamika Shrivastava

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I’ve always loved writing and storytelling, and hockey gives me a perfect stage for endless stories to tell. Whether it’s breaking down a game, analyzing a big trade, or capturing the emotions on the ice, I bring the NHL to life through words. So what’s the best part you ask? Watching the action unfold and turning it into something fans can connect with. To my readers: Hockey is more than just a game—it’s the highs, the heartbreaks, and the moments that make us jump off our seats. So, keep cheering, keep debating, and never stop loving the madness of the sport!