Speculation is mounting that the Edmonton Oilers could pursue Los Angeles Kings forward Adrian Kempe next season. With Connor McDavid reportedly taking a team-friendly deal, cap flexibility may allow the Oilers to acquire a high-profile winger. Kempe’s uncertain contract status with the Kings fuels these rumors, as he could be a perfect fit alongside McDavid.

A new wave of NHL speculation has hit Edmonton, as an analyst floated the intriguing possibility of Los Angeles Kings forward Adrian Kempe joining Connor McDavid and the Oilers next season. With McDavid reportedly agreeing to a team-friendly two-year, $25 million extension, some insiders believe that cap flexibility could open the door for a high-profile addition and Kempe’s name is now at the top of that list.

Adrian Kempe’s uncertain future sparks free agency rumors

Adrian Kempe is in the final season of his four-year deal with the Kings and is set to become an unrestricted free agent after 2025–26. While he’s expressed a desire to stay in Los Angeles, reports suggest contract talks have stalled. On the Daily Faceoff Podcast, Jeff Marek discussed why the Oilers could be a natural fit for the speedy winger:“If you’re Adrian Kempe, one of the only players that could keep up with Connor McDavid, how do you not look at this and say, ‘you know, the market is shrinking. Everybody’s going to have money, including the Edmonton Oilers. Now I want to win the Stanley Cup if things go south for the LA Kings.'”Marek also pointed out the intrigue surrounding McDavid’s pay cut, adding: “The big money Connor McDavid left on the table… who’s going to take it? Is it Adrian Kempe?”

Why Kempe-to-Oilers could make sense

Kempe’s combination of speed, scoring, and defensive awareness could complement McDavid perfectly on Edmonton’s top line. With the NHL salary cap set to rise, the Oilers are expected to gain enough flexibility to pursue impact free agents, a factor that strengthens this rumor’s credibility.Following a recent loss to the Winnipeg Jets, Kempe admitted the defeat hit hard, saying, “This one stings, for sure.” But if Los Angeles can’t lock him down soon, the sting might be even greater, watching one of their stars skate alongside McDavid in a different jersey.Also Read: Brady Tkachuk injury update: Senators captain’s health in question after hard cross-check by Predators’ Roman JosiFor now, the chatter remains speculative, but one thing is certain: if the Oilers truly want another elite winger, Adrian Kempe could be the missing piece in their Stanley Cup puzzle.