Oilers News & Rumours: Mantha, Dach, Clattenburg, Podkolzin – The Hockey Writers –

The Edmonton Oilers have made a lot of additions to their roster this offseason, including the creation of a brand new three-goalie tandem, as well as bringing in Ryan Shea to replace Darnell Nurse. While they are seemingly done making moves for now, there are still some things they seem to be considering, and other things they are getting done before the 2026-27 season gets underway.

In this edition of Oilers News and Rumours, we take a look at a rumour connecting the Oilers to Anthony Mantha. As well, we look at the extension for Colton Dach, as well as some updates from Connor Clattenburg and Vasily Podkolzin.

Oilers Linked to Anthony Mantha?

The Oilers haven’t been overly active in trying to find a top-six forward this offseason, or so it seems, but a recent podcast appearance from David Pagnotta linked the Oilers to Anthony Mantha.

Pagnotta was discussing Mantha as a target for some teams and said, “Now, you know, would you take a shot on a two-year deal? I think some teams would.” Pagnotta continued, “I think the Oilers might be intrigued by that possibility…I think he’s looking for more term…the longer this goes, he’ll have a decision to make.”

Adding Mantha may block the Oilers from giving Isaac Howard a larger role this season, but we will see what they ultimately decide to do. Mantha is going to have to bend on his ask at some point.

Oilers Extend Colton Dach

The Oilers announced that they had signed forward Colton Dach to a two-year extension with a $1.2 million average annual value.

Dacher 👊

The #Oilers have signed forward Colton Dach to a two-year contract extension with an AAV of $1.2 million. pic.twitter.com/29pjRSs3eo

— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) July 12, 2026

Dach was acquired by the Oilers before the 2026 Trade Deadline, and was a strong fit in their bottom-six forward group.

Connor Clattenburg Ready to Push For NHL Spot

At Oilers’ development camp, Connor Clattenburg made it clear he is ready to push for a full-time NHL spot in the 2026-27 season.

Clattenburg said, “My main goal is just to make the big squad and stay around here.” He continued, “I’m going to do everything I can to play at the next level and just keep pushing myself, pushing guys around me to just make me better.”

Clattenburg played five games in the NHL last season, scoring one goal, and demonstrated his ability to be a physical presence. With the Oilers’ deep organizational depth at forward, it won’t be easy, but he will be given every opportunity to start with the Oilers next season.

Vasily Podkolzin Speaks on Oilers’ Offseason

In a recent interview, Vasily Podkolzin discussed a few things, including the Oilers’ coaching change, the new additions to the roster, and more.

With the hiring of Mike Babcock, Podkolzin said, “It’s possible that he will be tough in certain moments.” He continued, “But that’s what we need. Mike spoke with the team leaders, and I think he has a plan on how to utilize us.”

There was a bittersweet feeling from Podkolzin on the firing of Kris Knoblauch. He said, “I really developed under him, and he gave me room to play, so it’s hard for me to evaluate the situation objectively. Time is ticking, and our leaders are in their prime.”

He continued, “That is both a curse and an advantage for coaches. The pressure and responsibility for the result are colossal because that’s what a coach gets paid for. I am very grateful to Kris and wrote him a message of thanks after his dismissal. Our team is entering a new phase, and I hope it ends in a victory.”

Podkolzin also praised the addition of Frederik Andersen, stating, “He is an experienced goaltender who just won the Stanley Cup. I hope he’s going to help us.”

As the 2026-27 season approaches, be sure to continue following The Hockey Writers as your source for news, updates, and more from around the NHL and the hockey world.