Connor McDavid (Credit: Getty Images)Michael Bunting has become an unlikely name in Edmonton Oilers offseason chatter, after reports tied the veteran winger to summer training sessions with Connor McDavid and Zach Hyman. The development has NHL trade rumours swirling as Edmonton searches for cheap ways to add forward depth.In 2025-26, Bunting recorded 33 points in 74 games, with 14 goals and 19 assists. He also has a career-high 63-point season from his time with the Toronto Maple Leafs, giving Edmonton a player with proven scoring ability.Could Michael Bunting join Connor McDavid in Edmonton?It’s still a little bit of a stretch, but Michael Bunting could fit in as a cheap scoring-depth option for the Edmonton Oilers.Bunting has been skating with Connor McDavid and Zach Hyman this off-season, reports said Sunday. That connection has, of course, sparked interest among Oilers fans, though summer training with NHL players doesn’t mean a contract or trade agreement is in place.Bunting’s physicality and disruptive style can be a good complement to skilled offensive players. His best NHL season was 2021-22, when he had 63 points in 79 games with the Toronto Maple Leafs.His 2025-26 production was more modest, but 33 points in 74 games still gives Edmonton an experienced middle-six option. He’s got a knack for creating chances around the net, which could also fit a playmaker like McDavid.How does Edmonton’s roster situation affect this?The Edmonton Oilers have a lot of money invested in their core, so cost-effective additions are that much more important. Connor McDavid led the NHL in points last season with 138, scoring 48 goals and 90 assists.Edmonton also finished the 2025-26 regular season with a 41-30-11 record and 93 points, so any late-offseason addition would likely be evaluated on whether it would strengthen the roster without putting undue financial pressure on the team.The Edmonton Oilers have not confirmed any signing or trade involving Michael Bunting.Bunting, acquired from the Nashville Predators at the trade deadline, finished the 2025-26 season with the Dallas Stars. The campaign ended with 33 points in 74 games, and he was among the remaining free agents in the NHL in July.For now, the McDavid-Bunting connection is an interesting offseason story, not evidence of a done deal. But if Edmonton wants an experienced winger who doesn’t cost too much, Bunting’s profile explains why his name is being talked about.NHL trade rumours are swirling around Michael Bunting after his offseason training with Edmonton Oilers superstars Connor McDavid and Zach Hyman. Bunting had 33 points last season and a career-best 63-point season. There’s no official deal with Edmonton, but his scoring pedigree, physical style and potential affordability could make him an intriguing option for the Oilers’ forward depth.