Head coach Kris Knoblauch of the Edmonton Oilers
The Edmonton Oilers are making moves to bolster their blue line, and defenseman Travis Dermott is at the center of it. Dermott, currently with the organization on a professional tryout, is expected to finalize a two-way contract on Wednesday, according to PuckPedia. The deal comes as Edmonton looks to navigate salary cap limitations and prepare for the long-term injured reserve (LTIR) placement of winger Evander Kane.
Dermott, once a promising third-pairing regular for the Toronto Maple Leafs from 2018 to 2022, brings a mix of physicality and experience to the Oilers. His time in Toronto saw him post 41 points in 157 games, along with a +25 rating, making him a reliable option for the Leafs during his first three seasons. His ability to play on both the left and right side of the defense adds a layer of versatility, and his reputation as a physical defender is backed by ranking third in hits on the Leafs in 2018-19 with 100 in 64 games.
However, his play has seen a noticeable decline in recent years, particularly following his trade to the Vancouver Canucks in 2022 and a concussion that limited him to just 11 games the following season. After landing with the Arizona Coyotes on a one-year, two-way deal, Dermott managed 50 games in 2023-24, recording seven points and a -14 rating. Despite the less-than-stellar numbers, Dermott’s role was demanding, often starting shifts in the defensive zone and facing some of the toughest minutes of his career.
Now, Dermott finds himself vying for a spot in Edmonton’s defense corps, which is undergoing a significant transition. With the departure of Vincent Desharnais in free agency and Cody Ceci being dealt to the Sharks due to cap constraints, the Oilers are looking to solidify their defensive pairings. Dermott will likely compete for a spot alongside names like Ty Emberson and Troy Stecher, with the Oilers currently carrying only six defenders.
While Dermott’s contract is expected to be a two-way deal, it would be surprising to see him placed on waivers rather than start the season on the NHL roster. Given the Oilers’ needs and his experience, Dermott could provide valuable depth to a team with playoff aspirations.
As the Oilers finalize their roster, all eyes will be on how Dermott fits into the defensive puzzle and whether he can recapture the form that made him a dependable defender earlier in his career.
