Speaking on the Kevin Karius sports radio show, insider Frank Seravalli mentioned that Edmonton is not trying to trade for a higher-ranked defenseman.
“To be honest, I don’t think that’s going to happen. From what I’ve heard, the Oilers haven’t dedicated much time to looking for defense players. They seem to believe they will improve naturally when the right moment comes. These players know how to get it done.
Oilers looking within for help
Actually, because of their salary cap and player roster, Edmonton might have to rely on players already in the organization, whether it’s from role players stepping up or help from Bakersfield.
Besides making a trade, these are pretty much the only two choices. The problem is, Edmonton might not have the skill needed to rely on these backup players. The defensive problems have existed since the start of the season and still haven’t fixed themselves from inside the team.
“Your partner can’t cover up for Darnell Nurse’s mistakes,” Seravalli said, “and no one, not even Tristan Jarry at times, can save this team from their defensive mistakes when Evan Bouchard makes a big turnover or gets outplayed. ”
One big reason the team may not be looking for big names close to the trade deadline is because of Stan Bowman’s bad choices.
Hockey writer David Staples argues that it doesn’t make much sense for the Oilers to spend more money on a top-nine forward when they are already spending $7.45 million yearly on Frederic and Mangiapane, who are two of the more troublesome contracts.
Staples thinks Kasperi Kapanen can fill the top-six role the team needs.
Furthermore, Josh Samanski has shown that he can perform well at the NHL level as a third center since being called up from Bakersfield.
There’s also the concern about the team’s near future if Edmonton gets one or more forwards with longer contracts. This could slow down the growth of their young prospects, affecting how they can develop at the NHL level.
Players like Matt Savoie, Ike Howard, Quinn Huston, Roby Jarventie, and Viljami Marjala could be impacted.
Stan Bowman definitely has a lot to think about while the Olympic break is happening. How he will react to this is still uncertain.
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