Former Boston Bruins defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk is speaking to a number of groups a few contract for this season. Amongst them is the Edmonton Oilers who’re reportedly in discussions with the NHL veteran. In keeping with NHL insider Pierre LeBrun, the idea is that Edmonton has already had conversations with Shattenkirk’s camp.
He writes:
His camp, led by agent Jordan Neumann, stays in fixed communication with a number of groups, having in-depth conversations about his shopper’s potential match. It’s believed the Edmonton Oilers are among the many groups which have talked to them.
After a tough begin to the 2024-25 season, which noticed the Oilers endure a 6-0 loss to the Winnipeg Jets, there’s rising concern in regards to the workforce’s defensive depth. This isn’t the primary time Edmonton has been linked to Shattenkirk, but when the Oilers maintain having defensive points, it might immediate extra critical conversations. Shattenkirk, a former Bruin, who additionally performed with the Anaheim Geese, Washington Capitals, New York Rangers, Tampa Bay Lightning, and St. Louis Blues is somebody who might assist Edmonton if issues go from unhealthy to worse.
Shattenkirk, 35, has performed 952 NHL video games and is thought for his offensive skills from the blue line. Whereas not essentially a shutdown defenseman, he’s a succesful defender. Key to the Oilers’ curiosity is that he’s a right-shot blueliner able to 16 minutes per sport. He is likely to be a greater choice than what the Oilers have on their roster.
Shattenkirk spent final season with the Bruins, averaging just below 15:47 per sport and enjoying in six playoff contests. His expertise and management, in addition to his 2020 Stanley Cup win with the Tampa Bay Lightning at a reduced charge, are all enticing qualities,
The Oilers’ main concern, nonetheless, is discovering a strong defensive companion for Darnell Nurse. Shattenkirk’s status leans extra towards offensive play, and it’s laborious to know if this is able to be a match. On the similar time, it could possibly be a cheap calculated danger.
LeBrun writes that Shattenkirk’s camp, led by agent Jordan Neumann, has been in talks with a number of groups because the defenseman continues to coach whereas awaiting the fitting match.
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