Wed, Mar 6, 2024 at 2:45pm

HENRIQUE, CARRICK HEAD TO EDMONTON

In a three-team trade, the Edmonton Oilers acquired forwards Adam Henrique and Sam Carrick from the Anaheim Ducks, and goaltender Ty Taylor and a seventh-round draft pick in 2024 from the Tampa Bay Lightning; Anaheim acquired a first-round draft pick in 2024 and a conditional fifth-round draft pick in 2025 from the Oilers, and a conditional fifth-round draft pick in 2025 from the Lightning; and Tampa Bay acquired a conditional fourth-round draft pick in 2025 from the Oilers.

What does it give the Edmonton Oilers
The Oilers are beefing up down the middle by adding both Henrique and Carrick. Edmonton could use Henrique as its No. 3 center and Carrick on the fourth line. Or, both might also be used on the wing. Regardless of where they line up, they both should provide quality depth, leadership and veteran presence to the lineup. Henrique will also give the Oilers some secondary scoring, while Carrick adds loads of grit and toughness.

What does it give the Anaheim Ducks
Both Henrique and Carrick are pending unrestricted free agents this summer, so Ducks GM Pat Verbeek did well to land a first-round pick in this trade. He also got a conditional fifth-rounder in '25 that could turn into a fourth-rounder if the Oilers win the Stanley Cup. Both Henrique and Carrick were long-standing members of the Ducks, and they provided yeoman service for the organization. But, it was definitely time to move on.

What does it give the
The Oilers needed a third team involved in this trade in order to retain as much salary on Henrique's contract as possible. Enter the Lightning, who were able to send goaltender Ty Taylor (who is no longer considered an NHL prospect) and a seventh-rounder in the upcoming draft in exchange for a fourth-rounder in '25. The pick will become a '26 fourth-rounder if the Oilers win the Stanley Cup this summer.

Fantasy impact
Henrique is unlikely to see as much ice time in Edmonton, but he will be playing with better talent around him. Keep him or pick him up if he is available in various leagues, but it is not necessary to acquire him via trade. Carrick has very little fantasy value even as a member of the Oilers.