Did the Blues Scoop Another Oilers Target in Cam Fowler?

The St. Louis Blues’ acquisition of Cam Fowler from the Anaheim Ducks has raised eyebrows, especially among Edmonton Oilers fans on Saturday. Fowler, who was retained at 38% of his salary, has been a polarizing figure in trade rumors, with some Oilers fans relieved he didn’t end up in Edmonton, while others lament another missed opportunity. Perhaps worse than not getting the player, some fans are feeling a bit uneasy that the Blues seemingly got another asset the Oilers liked.

Fowler to the #Blues with 38% retained. Scratch him off your #Oilers potential trade target list. https://t.co/7zQa66Lg7e

— Paul Almeida (@AzorcanGlobal) December 14, 2024

Fowler, 31, is closing in on 1,000 career games and has been a reliable presence for the Ducks, averaging over 21 minutes per game and leading their defense corps. He also logs significant time on the penalty kill, though his production has dipped, with zero goals so far this season. He was someone the Oilers were rumored to be looking at, even if there were few to no reports suggesting anything was imminent.

Critics point to his career -129 plus-minus rating and suggest that Fowler’s best days are behind him. That had some detractors in Edmonton concerned. Still, the Oilers have been active changing around their blue line and Fowler was known to be available. He would have been upgrade over some of the options Edmonton has/had at its disposal.

Did the Blues Screw Up the Oilers Plans Again?

The real story here, however, may be Blues GM Doug Armstrong’s knack for outmaneuvering the Oilers. After acquiring Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway in offer sheet deals over the summer, Armstrong has built a reputation for poaching talent Edmonton seemed interested in.

Now, landing Fowler at a discounted cap hit adds another piece to his puzzle. With moves like hiring head coach Jim Montgomery and building a competitive roster, Armstrong has entered conversations as the most GM in hockey.

This raises the question: Did the Blues outfox the Oilers again? Fowler may not have been the perfect fit for Edmonton, but his experience and puck-moving skills could have helped their blue-line issues. For a team desperate to improve their blue line, passing on Fowler—or being beaten to him—might sting in the long run.

Next: Do Red Wings Have Trade Conversations About Patrick Kane?