For years, the focus for the Edmonton Oilers has always been on what they were going to do to improve their goals. Now that they’ve seemingly solved that problem by acquiring Tristan Jarry – even though he’s currently injured – and a possible backup option in Connor Ingram, they can turn their attention to putting the finishing touches on the rest of their roster.
After spending so much time and energy addressing the crease, it should be refreshing for both the front office and fanbase to start scouring the market at other positions. According to insider David Pagnotta, general manager Stan Bowman has already identified what’s next on his radar: the blue line.
More specifically, Bowman is looking for a veteran defenseman with an impact, ideally in the form of the Mattias Ekholm trade that former GM Ken Holland completed in 2023.
said Pagnotta:
“That’s what I believe. Someone who’s a little bit Ekholm Jr.-esque, in terms of ability. Someone, just in terms of a shut-down type, a defense type with a little bit of physicality. I think that’s what they want to do and also what they’ve been looking for for the most part… I think they’re going to see if they can bring in someone with shut-down ability, in whatever capacity, before the Olympic break or before the Olympics.” the trade deadline,”
Ekholm’s arrival completely changed the complexion of the Oilers’ defensive corps, better placing everyone in the right roles and furthering Evan Bouchard’s development by providing such a steady, reliable presence next to him.
Potential trading targets for the oil companies
Now that we know what Bowman is looking for next, it only makes sense to dive into some potential defensive targets.
Insiders Jeremy Rutherford and Chris Johnston recently linked the Oilers to Colton Parayko, a fascinating move, though one that’s probably more likely to actually work out.
A few other names to keep an eye on include Justin Faulk, Connor Murphy, Brandon Carlo and maybe even Mario Ferraro, all defensemen listed on Johnston’s newest trading board who could compete as impactful top-four options in Edmonton.
Ultimately, it will come down to acquisition cost and what the Oilers are willing and able to do, not to mention the health of Jake Walman, who they brought in and built into a key member of the blue line.
Next: Latest NHL Trade Buzz: Oilers, Maple Leafs, Flames
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