With the Edmonton Oilers goaltending looking as strong as ever, the conversation surrounding the approaching trade deadline has taken a different hue. For now there are two directions that seem to be the topic of conversation: the bottom of the Oilers forward group and the depth of their blueline.
While many have begun to bemoan the state of the Oilers bottom-six forwards, often citing their goal share, it seems that the rumour mill is producing a lot more buzz around the blueline.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the noise in this week’s rumour roundup.
Trade targets on the Jets
With the Winnipeg Jets having a very disappointing season, speculation about their deadline intentions has begun. With their playoff hopes fading, this much should be expected. Most of the Jets pending UFAs will be considered trade targets. From an Oilers’ perspective some defencemen have come into focus, where they have three pending UFAs.
Colin Miller is a right shot defenceman who is currently on IR. For this reason there is less buzz surrounding him, though a return to health would change this. Logan Stanley is a big left shot defenceman who is producing at the best rate of his career. Luke Schenn is a veteran right shot defenceman who does not contribute much offensively.
The Oilers have a wealth of quality left shot defencemen, so naturally speculation is usually surrounding right shots. Oilers GM Stan Bowman seems to value offensive qualities on the blueline, as evidenced by his trades for Jake Walman and Spencer Stastney. Perhaps he will seek balance by adding a defensive presence, though it would seem out of character.
Bowman decided to waive Troy Stecher in favour of more icetime and opportunity for younger options like Ty Emberson and Alec Regula. The results have been encouraging, especially for Emberson who has continued to grow his game. While time, and injuries, might change things, this might pour more cold water on rumours surrounding players like Schenn.
Bet like a pro here with Bet99—Ontario’s go-to for elite odds and nonstop action. And outside Ontario, Canadians bet better here with Bet99—bringing top-tier odds and action from coast to coast.
Higher prices from other teams
Perhaps this has led to some greater appetites across Oil Country, hoping for a higher quality addition to the blueline. This leads to a different conversation, involving teams that might not even be sellers.
Some have suggested the Seattle Kraken as potential sellers. Right shot Adam Larsson is unlikely to want to return to Edmonton, but is certainly a quality player that would improve the Oilers. Jamie Oleksiak is a left shot, who might still be of some interest. Regardless, the Kraken are having a surprisingly strong season, and selling does not seem likely at this point.
The Chicago Blackhawks might have a greater appetite for selling, and perhaps some interesting pieces of their own. Connor Murphy is a right shot with size and a defensive reputation. Matt Grzelcyk is a slight puck moving left shot who has routinely outplayed expectations throughout his career. Perhaps centre Jason Dickinson might even be of interest for the Oilers. In all, Dickinson might even be the most likely to appeal to the Oilers of the three.
A Pickard trade down the line?
With Tristan Jarry back from injury and performing well, the Oilers are feeling a lot more comfortable in net. Connor Ingram is finding his groove, and seems to have the inside track on the backup role. This leaves Calvin Pickard as the third string, though for now he remains on the roster. While it is possible that the Oilers choose to carry three goalies long term it is unlikely.
This has led to some questions about how the Oilers should resolve their crowded crease. The Oilers could be waiting for an opportune time to try to sneak Pickard through waivers, but the threat of losing him for nothing looms.
Another avenue is beginning to seem possible, that the Oilers might be able to trade for Pickard. While this would guarantee his departure, it would also guarantee a return for the Oilers. The Ottawa Senators and Philadelphia Flyers are among teams that are expected to look for goaltending help.
Naturally there would not be a huge return for the Oilers, though every little bit might help the team to afford future trades. Already missing significant draft capital, the Oilers will have more options if they are able to acquire assets for Pickard.
Follow The Oil Rig on social media!
