Oilers and Islanders in Talks Over Ilya Sorokin Trade
The Edmonton Oilers and New York Islanders have been linked in trade discussions involving Russian goalie Ilya Sorokin. From Edmonton’s perspective, acquiring Sorokin is a pressing need—they lack a reliable starting goaltender and, as a team with Stanley Cup aspirations, that’s a critical gap to fill.
For the Islanders, a trade only makes sense if the return is significant. That could be a challenge for Edmonton to offer, but given their situation, they might have no choice but to pay a steep price.
Potential Trade Scenario
To Edmonton:
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Ilya Sorokin (G)
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Pierre Engvall (F)
To New York:
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2027 first-round pick
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2028 first-round pick
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Isaac Howard (F)
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Stuart Skinner (G)
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Riley Stillman (D)
This proposed deal would be a major acquisition cost for Edmonton. However, Sorokin, signed through 2032 with an $8.25 million cap hit, would address their biggest need and still be considered a fair contract in today’s market.
As part of the deal, the Oilers would also absorb Pierre Engvall’s contract, which is widely viewed as a salary dump by the Islanders. Though some might prefer to see Scott Mayfield included instead, Engvall’s deal is the most burdensome on the Islanders’ books.
Losing Sorokin would be a major blow for New York, making Stuart Skinner an essential part of the return. He could take over as the starter and potentially benefit from a change in environment. With only a year left on his contract, his impact on the Islanders’ cap is minimal.
The two first-round picks are the true headline assets in this deal. Assuming the Oilers remain competitive, these picks are more likely to be late-round selections—hence the need for both.
Isaac Howard, Edmonton’s top prospect recently acquired from Tampa Bay, would also be part of the return, giving the Islanders a promising forward. Riley Stillman would likely spend time in the AHL but could step up if needed at the NHL level.
Sorokin’s Say in the Deal
Sorokin holds a full no-movement clause through 2028, meaning he would have to agree to any trade. If presented with a compelling offer and a chance to join a legitimate Cup contender, Sorokin might be willing to waive it—especially given the Islanders’ slim championship odds in the near future.
Why the Islanders Might Consider It
Trading a franchise goaltender like Sorokin isn’t an easy decision, and with no clear successor ready, it would require a leap of faith. Still, the Islanders have missed the playoffs recently and are in the middle of a roster retool. With big changes underway, they may not be true contenders for a few more years.
This longer timeline could allow them to find another top-tier goalie—perhaps someone like Sergei Bobrovsky when he hits free agency after this season.
While trading Sorokin would be surprising, it’s not out of the realm of possibility if the Islanders see a strong enough long-term return.
