Just two days after trading Connor Murphy to Edmonton for a 2028 second-round pick, another deal between the Oilers and Blackhawks has been finalized. The Blackhawks are sending veteran center Jason Dickinson, with 50% salary retention, and young forward Colton Dach to Edmonton. In return, Chicago will receive a 2027 first-round pick that is protected if it falls within the top 12 selections, along with forward Andrew Mangiapane.
Details and Context of the Trade
Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman first reported the impending deal on social media Wednesday evening. Dickinson, 30, is nearing unrestricted free agency and is in the final year of a two-year, $8.5 million contract extension he signed with Chicago in 2024. During the current season, he has recorded 13 points, including six goals and seven assists over 47 games, following a career-best 35-point campaign last season.
Colton Dach, 23, is a restricted free agent currently in the third year of his entry-level contract with the Blackhawks. He has appeared in 53 games this season, producing nine points (three goals and six assists). He is also the younger brother of Montreal Canadiens center Kirby Dach.
Projected Roles and Team Impact
Jason Dickinson is expected to compete for the third-line center position in Edmonton. His size and defensive reliability align well with the Oilers’ needs, compensating for his lower recent offensive output. The Oilers, currently the NHL’s second-highest scoring team, can afford to bolster their defensive core without sacrificing scoring depth.
Colton Dach offers added youth and depth to the Oilers’ forward lineup. His development and potential opportunities within Edmonton remain to be seen but could be promising given the team’s depth.
Blackhawks’ Strategy in Exchange
Chicago is moving another expiring contract and a former second-round pick in exchange for increased draft capital, while also bringing Andrew Mangiapane aboard. This move appears aimed at building future assets while acquiring a versatile forward who can contribute immediately.
Implications for the Future of Both Teams
This trade continues Edmonton’s active approach to restructuring their roster by adding experienced and promising talent. For the Blackhawks, securing draft picks and a capable forward like Mangiapane supports their ongoing rebuild strategy. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how Dickinson and Dach integrate with their new team and whether these moves propel Edmonton further in the playoff race.
“Edmonton and Chicago are discussing another move. This one would send Jason Dickinson to the Oilers. We will see how it turns out,”
?Elliotte Friedman, Sportsnet insider
Edmonton and Chicago are discussing another move
This one would send Jason Dickinson to the Oilers. We will see how it turns out
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) March 5, 2026
