Instead of trading Kailer Yamamoto there are a few reasons why the Oilers should keep him.

The Edmonton Oilers need to clear cap space this off-season. With the draft and free agency on the horizon, it needs to happen sooner rather than later. One name constantly in rumors and speculation is the young under-sized winger Kailer Yamamoto.

Related: 4 Potential Trade Destinations for Oilers' Yamamoto

Yamamoto has not finished developing as he is only 24-years-old and has only played 244 NHL games. He has shown flashes of brilliance, but there is still more potential to be unlocked for a team that is patient enough to let him develop.

He's Still Really Young

NHL players generally hit their prime between the ages of 25-29. Yamamoto is one year away from being considered in his prime. Additionally, undersized players can take longer to develop and see their point production decline a few years later than most.

Great Potential Yet to be Unlocked

Yamamoto is only one year removed from a 40-point season in 2021-22. While injuries hampered his play this past season, it would be premature to trade him now. He has trade value as Frank Seravalli has said that there are multiple teams interested in the player.

Related: Oilers' Would You Rather Trade Yamamoto or Foegele?

A player that is this young could flourish with another year playing for a Stanley Cup Contending team. His potential has been seen but is yet to be fully realized. But the salary cap needs to be addressed by the team and trading Yamamoto is an effective way to do that.