Insider Sets Record Straight About Oilers Interest in Binnington

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Erik Johnson mentioning Edmonton as a fit for goaltender Jordan Binnington might have been premature, according to his analyst partner and NHL insider Elliotte Friedman. During Monday’s 32 Thoughts podcast, Friedman shot down any suggestion that the Oilers would be trying to acquire Jarry.

He explained:

“The one thing about Binnington is, he’s proven the last couple of years, regardless of how you feel about his regular season, you put him in an elevated situation, like the 4 Nations, like the Olympics, he still has an extremely high level. Like, if I was a good team, I’ve seen the way he’s played in those tournaments the last two years, I’m trusting him. I’m putting him in these games.”

He added:

So I just think he’s going to be a guy to watch over the next few months, cuz, you know, now he needs a new contract, and Hofer kind of won the job. You could see where, you know, someone like him might appreciate the chance to go somewhere else and try to win a job. You know, Eric said Edmonton. I don’t think, right now, Edmonton’s looking at it. I think, the way Levi’s played this year, and he won again on Saturday night, and, you know, Jarry has been pretty good so far this season. I don’t know that I’ve been rushing to make that move, but, we’ll see.”

Oilers Have No Reason to Go After Binnington Right Now

In other words, Friedman isn’t closing the door completely on Edmonton looking at another goaltender, but there’s no urgency right now. Levi and Jarry are doing fine, and with Frederik Andersen working his way back from an injury, the Oilers have no need to go rush for a goaltender who costs over $5 million and has a lousy regular season record.

Later this season, if the goaltending becomes an issue for the Oilers, things could change. Right now, Binnington is not on their radar.

Next: NHL Trade Talk Recap: Oilers, Blues, Lightning & Blackhawks