The Edmonton Oilers have a great chance at the Stanley Cup this season, and could possibly push in all their chips for a blockbuster trade deadline deal for Bruins forward Brad Marchand.
The Oilers have been linked to acquiring a tough, versatile forward in trade this season, and may have extra cap space with Evander Kane out for the season.
Edmonton Oilers connected to Brad Marchand in blockbuster trade
According to a recent article from Daniel Nugent-Bowman and referencing reports from Boston, the Bruins may consider trading the UFA Marchand if they fall out of the playoff race this season - and Edmonton would be a prime destination.
Elliotte Friedman has added more to the rumour, suggesting there is credibility to the idea that Boston could trade their captain.
There was a time in this year where I didn't think there was a chance that Marchand would be [traded] out [of Boston]. Now I think it's not as certain, depending on what happens here."- Elliotte Friedman
It'd be unreal for the Bruins to deal their captain at 36 years old after playing 16 seasons in Boston. However, the Bruins are falling out of a playoff spot, and have always been known to make ruthless decision in pursuit of getting better. A Marchand trade could jump start a quick re-tool for their aging team.
Do the Edmonton Oilers need Brad Marchand?
Acquiring Brad Marchand would be an incredible blockbuster move from the Edmonton Oilers. There's a hole in the lineup next to Leon Draisaitl that could be easily filled by an elite two way veteran like Marchand.
Even in his age 36 season on a declining team, Marchand is finding ways to be productive. In 54 games this season, Marchand has 19 goals and 42 points, while still being a great two way player and pest. At $6.125M for only this season, he's on a reasonable contract too.
The Oilers may have to pay a major price to acquire Marchand, a package beginning with their several of their top prospects - but it could be a move that secures bringing the Stanley Cup back to Edmonton.
Oilers fans will have a reason to closely track the Bruins for the rest of the season, perhaps hoping they can fall out of the playoff race, putting a blockbuster scenario on the line.
