D-Men and Veteran Goalie Noted as Oilers Narrow Trade Focus

Allan Mitchell of The Athletic took a look at the Edmonton Oilers trade plans ahead of this season’s NHL Trade Deadline and noted this is about the time when GM Stan Bowman starts to formulate his strategy. Citing the GM from an interview with Daniel Nugent-Bowman, the man running the show for the Oilers said:

“We’ll probably start to narrow that focus maybe around Christmas. From Games 40 to 50 is when we’re going to try to really decide which type of player would be the best one to add. If we can add a defenceman, we’d like to.”

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The Oilers have been linked to a few names on the blue line, where the need is most pressing. Mitchell reports that David Savard and Mike Matheson of the Montreal Canadiens are likely on Edmonton’s radar. Meanwhile, Bowen Byram is the ideal fit because of his status as a left-handed blueliner who is facing elites. Olli Maatta is someone who has traditionally performed well on mediocre teams, while Marcus Pettersson and Ivan Provorov round out the group.

Mitchell knows that not all of these names will be available, and he believes someone like Byrman might be too costly for the Oilers to acquire. Mitchell notes, “A guess would have Mike Matheson of the Montreal Canadiens as both qualified for the role required and priced at an acceptable level for Bowman.”

What About Other Positions for the Oilers?

Mitchell wonders if Bowman is comfortable going into the playoffs with the goaltending tandem as is. Noting the link to John Gibson by Chris Johnston, Mitchell thinks Gibson might not be a big enough upgrade considering the cost it would take to land him in a trade.

One option that could be inexpensive and could be on the move, depending on how poorly the season continues to go, is Jonathan Quick. Mitchell writes, “Bowman might feel a low-cost addition (Jonathan Quick of the New York Rangers) would be appropriate, and the team could run three goaltenders into the final stages of the season and playoffs.”

He also details that “A right-handed center could be a need, but it isn’t clear that is the case.” Arguing Noah Philp is a suitable option for Edmonton, Mitchell says, “He brings size, speed, checking ability, and enough skill to survive in the NHL.”

Oilers Are Focused on Several Trade Options

Needless to say, the Oilers are starting to look at what they need and what will be available on the market. They aren’t likely to make a move now, instead opting to wait as long as possible. And, because they are on a roll, the team has given Bowman time to wait for the right deal.

Next: Insider Matches Oilers in Trade to Less Attractive Cup-Winning D-Man