The Oilers and the NHL are now just days away from the regular season opener, and today they'll have a deadline for final roster moves.
NHL teams need to submit their opening rosters to the league today at 3:00MT. With final cuts and additions being made on waivers, it's expected to be another busy day in the NHL.
The Edmonton Oilers made plenty of significant roster moves yesterday, sending down standout prospect Noah Philp and waiving four more players - including Josh Brown and Raphael Lavoie. Although the Oilers have already made the bulk of their moves, there could be a final tweak coming.
New York Rangers defenceman Matthew Robertson hit waivers yesterday, which caught the attention of Oilers reporters. Robertson is a 23 year old defenceman with positive analytics and can bring the physical element the Oilers wanted from Josh Brown. Robertson also has played several seasons under coach Knoblauch. He's under contract for just one year at league minimum salary, so it could be a manageable addition.
There's a possibility they claim Matthew Robertson, but the more likely move is that the Oilers will sign defenceman Travis Dermott after his tryout at training camp. The 27 year old left shot defender impressed many at Oilers camp with his ability to make quality passes and play both sides of the ice. Multiple Oilers insiders expect Dermott to sign a cheap deal to be the team's 7th defenceman this season.
The Oilers likely have at least one move left up their sleeve before the regular season begin, and with the roster deadline looming, it's probable that move comes today. With so many players on waivers yesterday and today, there could be an opportunity for a surprising addition.
