Oilers Secure Frederic, Jones in Major Trade Ahead of Deadline

EDMONTON, AB – The Edmonton Oilers have finalized a significant three-team trade ahead of the NHL trade deadline, acquiring forwards Trent Frederic and Max Jones from the Boston Bruins, along with the rights to forward Petr Hauser from the New Jersey Devils.

The transactions, made public on March 4, 2025, include a series of moves that have set the stage for a competitive push as the playoffs approach. The Oilers traded unsigned draft choice Shane Lachance to the New Jersey Devils, who retained 50% of Frederic’s salary. The Bruins received defenseman Max Wanner, a second-round pick in 2025, and a fourth-round pick in 2026 in exchange for Frederic and Jones.

Frederic, a third-round pick by the Bruins in 2016, has had a steady season, recording eight goals and seven assists in 57 games. At 6-foot-3 and 221 pounds, the 27-year-old is noted for his physical play, ranking second among Bruins forwards with 155 hits this season. Over his career, Frederic has amassed 109 points (55 goals and 54 assists) in 337 games, and will become an unrestricted free agent following this season.

“We’re excited to add a player of Frederic’s caliber to our roster,” said Oilers General Manager Stan Bowman. “He brings a combination of skill and tenacity that fits our needs as we head into the final stretch.”

Max Jones, who also stands at 6-foot-3 and weighs 216 pounds, has struggled to find his footing this season, appearing in only seven games with Boston. However, he has demonstrated offensive potential in the AHL, tallying 13 goals and eight assists in 38 games with the Providence Bruins. Originally drafted 24th overall by the Anaheim Ducks in 2016, Jones has played a total of 258 games in the NHL, scoring 62 points (31 goals and 31 assists).

“Jones has shown flashes of his potential, and we’re looking forward to bringing him into our mix,” said Bowman. “His size and skill set will be valuable as we move forward.”

Petr Hauser, a prospect playing in Czechia, has been performing well in his league, with six goals and seven assists in 41 games. The 21-year-old was selected by New Jersey in the fifth round of the 2022 NHL Draft and has international experience, having represented Czechia in the World Junior Championships.

The details of the trade reflect a strategic shift for the Bruins, who are now tasked with rebuilding. Head Coach Joe Sacco acknowledged the challenges ahead after the recent player acquisitions and the need for the team to recalibrate their strategies following injuries to key players such as captain Brad Marchand.

“These are tough decisions, but we believe they were necessary for the future of the franchise,” Sacco stated. “We’ll work hard to ensure we remain competitive while also planning ahead.”

The Oilers’ moves come amid rumors of their pursuit of additional depth scoring, with more trades potentially on the horizon as the deadline looms. With the NHL playoffs drawing closer, both teams are aware of the changes necessary to bolster their rosters.