With Evander Kane gone, the Edmonton Oilers now have a clear vacancy in their top-six forward group. As rumors swirl around a potential trade for Viktor Arvidsson, the team is also reportedly eyeing Utah winger Matias Maccelli. But considering Maccelli’s size and inconsistent offensive output, is he really the right fit?
Bob Stauffer of Oilers Now reported that Edmonton had shown interest in Maccelli during the 2024–25 season and even considered trading Arvidsson for him around the deadline. Although that deal didn’t happen, Maccelli’s diminished standing in Utah could make him a target once again this offseason.
Meanwhile, Utah recently made a late-night deal, sending Josh Doan and Michael Kesselring to Buffalo for JJ Peterka, while Maccelli remained with the team. That could mean Utah still values him — or it could signal that other trades involving Maccelli are in the pipeline.
Maccelli, 23, showed promise with 49 and 57-point campaigns in his first two NHL seasons with Arizona, but his first year in Salt Lake City was disappointing. He tallied only 18 points in 55 games and was a healthy scratch for 13 straight contests late in the season, appearing in just three games after the 4 Nations break.
His $3.425 million cap hit is fairly reasonable — and lower than Arvidsson’s — and his age and prior production still make him more than just a prospect. However, it’s unclear whether he meets Edmonton’s current needs.
Is Maccelli Worth the Risk for the Oilers?
The argument for acquiring Maccelli is that he could be a more skilled option than Arvidsson, with potential upside alongside someone like Leon Draisaitl. But standing just 5-foot-11, Maccelli lacks physicality and hasn’t proven to be effective without the puck. His inability to consistently drive play raises concerns, even if his playmaking and finishing instincts are clear.
Given his regression last season and reduced role in Utah, the team might be open to moving him. Still, that doesn’t mean Edmonton should make the move.
Elliotte Friedman mentioned on 32 Thoughts that Utah could be among the most aggressive teams this offseason — a prediction already coming true under owner Ryan Smith’s bold approach. A Maccelli trade could be part of that push, but unless the Oilers can land him at a steal, it may not be worth the gamble.
While Maccelli remains a tempting talent, Edmonton — firmly focused on contending now — may not have the cap flexibility or patience to take a risk on another undersized, unproven forward when more dependable options are likely available.
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