The Oilers made an impressive off the radar move to acquire Jake Walman of the San Jose Sharks, who opened up about feeling shocked by the trade and his history of being dealt.
Jake Walman was traded to the Edmonton Oilers by the San Jose Sharks on Friday for a conditional first-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft and forward prospect Carl Berglund.
Jake Walman expresses hard feelings about trade from a Detroit Red Wings, shock about joining Oilers
So far, things have gone swimmingly for Walman, making his impact felt in his first gaming donning the orange and blue. However, Walman's journey to northern Alberta hasn't been an easy one.
In a new interview, Walman describes his journey so far, sharing the difficult emotions he experienced after getting traded.
I was a little bit shocked that they just threw me away. That's how I felt. I was upset. I wanted to prove people wrong, at that point, the following year. I thought we were building something in Detroit, and I was going to be a part of it."- Jake Walman
Clearly, Walman is referring to his trade from the Detroit Red Wings, but it's likely that some of those same emotions resurfaced when he learned he was being traded once more. However, being traded to Connor McDavid's definitely team softens the blow.
Some rumours have previously surfaced that the Red Wings moved on from Walman because of locker room concerns, but they're not reliable and Walman seems like a great personable add to the team.
Furthermore, Walman reflects on his opportunity to play on a Stanley Cup contending team, expressing his gratitude towards GM Stan Bowman.
It says a little bit about the transition I've made in a year, and getting the trust from Stan to come and get me.
It means a lot. I feel shocked, but obviously really excited for this opportunity. It's a different feeling. You know what (kind of) team you're joining.
- Jake Walman
Hopefully fans will be able to see Walman's 'Griddy' once he settles in a bit more in Oil Country.
