The Edmonton Oilers are available in the market for one more top-four defenseman following key losses on their blue line this summer season. The staff traded Cody Ceci to the San Jose Sharks, whereas Vincent Desharnais signed with the Vancouver Canucks, and Philip Broberg was misplaced to a proposal sheet by the St. Louis Blues. These strikes have left vital gaps within the Oilers’ prime 4, prompting basic supervisor Stan Bowman to discover potential commerce choices.
In accordance with Oilers Now host Bob Stauffer, the staff is actively looking for a second-pairing proper defenseman, ideally one with not a lot time period left on their contract. Stauffer tweeted, “Totally anticipate the Oilers to be available in the market for a 2nd pairing RD…in some unspecified time in the future…Ideally with a bit time period left…” With the Oilers’ administration and head coach Kris Knoblauch attending the Penticton match, it’s not clear if the staff is utilizing this chance to scout commerce choices or speak to different GMs, however when Stauffer says he expects one thing, it’s doubtless as a result of he’s heard it inside the group.
Stauffer was the primary, if not one of many first folks to trace that Edmonton was inviting Travis Dermott to coaching camp on knowledgeable tryout (PTO) to supply some depth. The staff made that official this weekend.
The Oilers have additionally been linked to veteran defensemen like Mark Giordano and Kevin Shattenkirk. Each would convey expertise however might solely be short-term options.
Stauffer didn’t reveal any particular defensemen the staff may be focusing on or whether or not they have a selected participant in thoughts.
What If The Oilers Don’t Discover a Commerce?
Even when the Oilers aren’t profitable in touchdown a commerce for a top-four defender, the group is optimistic in regards to the potential growth of Ty Emberson, who was acquired within the commerce that despatched Ceci to the Sharks. Emberson has proven promise, and Bowman talked extremely of him throughout a current interview with Sports activities 1440. Knoblauch has some expertise with Emberson and the assumption is he may very well be a major asset because the season progresses.
Nonetheless, with Edmonton eyeing a deep playoff run, including a dependable top-four defenseman stays a vital precedence for Bowman.
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