Insider Says Merzlikins Won’t Be Back with Blue Jackets, Linked to Oilers

The Edmonton Oilers are emerging as a likely trade destination for Columbus Blue Jackets goaltender Elvis Merzlikins this offseason. The 32-year-old Latvian netminder spent the first seven years of his NHL career in Columbus after being drafted in the third round in 2014, but has fallen out of favor after a rough few seasons.

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This past year, Merzlikins posted a 3.40 GAA and a .883 SV% — both well below league average — eventually losing his starting job to Jet Greaves. Columbus is eager to move his remaining contract year at $5.4 million.

NHL insider Frank Seravalli pointed to Edmonton as the frontrunner, calling it the most likely move the Oilers make this week:

“My best guess would be in net: Elvis Merzlikins. I don’t know exactly how it’s going to play out. All I know is that whether it’s through retained money or so be it, Elvis Merzlikins, all I can say, and I don’t know if it’s definitely going to be Edmonton, all I can say is that he’s definitely not going to be tending goal for the Columbus Blue Jackets next year.”

Is Merzlikins Enough Of A Sure Thing for the Oilers?

Edmonton’s goaltending situation is unsettled heading into the offseason. Tristan Jarry struggled after being acquired from Pittsburgh, and Connor Ingram — who fared slightly better — is set to hit free agency.

New Oilers head coach Mike Babcock’s familiarity with Merzlikins from his brief time in Columbus could also play a role in the potential reunion. Merzlikins has one year left on his deal and a 10-team no-trade. It’s safe to assume he’d waive for the Oilers if he knew he was going to get an opportunity to start or be a 1A.

However, many Oilers fans would argue that Edmonton would be better of bringing Ingram back versus spending a lot of money on Merzlikins. Ingram had much better numbers last season and he’d be a fraction of the cost.

Next: Oilers Issue Qualifying Offers To Four Players