TSN’s Pierre LeBrun offered an update on the Edmonton Oilers and their plans for the NHL trade deadline. Happy with how their blue line has played and comfortable with their forwards and goaltenders doing their job, there isn’t much need for Edmonton or gaping holes to fill. That said, the team has identified one potential warning sign or red flag that they’d like to address.
During Thursday’s Insider Trading segment, LeBrun notes that the Oilers are compiling a list of names that might be on their radar. What they’ve realized is that the team might be one injury away from having a problem. As much as the players are doing their part, the Oilers aren’t incredibly deep at certain positions if the team suffers a health setback. As such, they’re casting a wide net and looking for suitable players who can fit in a depth role or offer that security they might need.
On the right side, the Oilers have Evan Bouchard, Ty Emberson, and a mix of other guys. They’re more experienced on the left side with Mattias Ekholm, Darnell Nurse, and Brett Kulak. Players can move around, but Edmonton might want another option.
LeBrun specifically mentioned David Savard as an option out of Montreal, and he said the Oilers are flexible in the type of player they’ll talk trades over. Whether it’s a shutdown penalty killer or a top-four puck-mover, Edmonton is open to any discussions if the right deal emerges.
Oilers Likely Want a Flexible Defender
LeBrun added that given Paul Coffey‘s willingness to juggle pairings and shuffle his defenseman around as needed, the Oilers likely want a bit more flexibility. They’ll be looking for a player who could potentially play both sides, is able to play a top-four role, or is open to fewer minutes in a depth spot.
This likely includes someone who can penalty kill, in the event that one of the Oilers’ top PK guys goes down.
Whether what the Oilers want is out there or what GM Stan Bowman is willing to pay remains to be seen. It does seem evident Bowman is making calls and letting teams know he wants to talk.
