During an appearance on Oilers Now with Bob Stauffer, NHL insider Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff recently discussed the trade potential surrounding Edmonton Oilers defenseman Cody Ceci. With the Oilers navigating salary cap constraints, Seravalli and Stauffer delved into Ceci’s future, given his veteran status and expiring contract worth $3.2 million annually.
Seravalli highlighted the demand for right-shot defensemen in Ceci’s salary range, noting the active market this offseason. He suggested Ceci could appeal to teams facing salary cap pressures, presenting a viable option for Edmonton should they explore a trade.
“I can confirm there is definitely interest in Cody Ceci,” Seravalli stated. “Right-shot defensemen at his salary are always in demand, especially with the spending we’ve seen this summer. Ceci’s contract is likely attractive to teams managing cap space issues. It’s a ‘break glass in case of emergency’ option for Jeff Jackson and the Oilers. Let’s see how things unfold.”
Despite criticism from some Oilers fans, particularly regarding his partnership with Darnell Nurse post-All-Star break, Ceci proved valuable during the 2024 playoffs. While paired with Brett Kulak, Ceci notably raised his performance, showcasing his ability to contribute effectively when not with Nurse.
Ceci’s playoff contributions were significant for a team that narrowly missed the Stanley Cup, making crucial plays amid scrutiny. The decision now hinges on whether Edmonton opts to trade him immediately or waits for a more opportune moment, considering potential replacements at right defense are not elite options.
As speculation swirls about Ceci’s role in the Oilers’ immediate plans, including recent trades like Ryan McLeod for top prospect Matthew Savoie, evaluating Ceci’s trade value remains a key consideration. Exploring current trade opportunities could prove prudent, though waiting for the right deal may also be a strategic move.