Oilers trade rumours: Insider believes Edmonton could target physical, ‘Ekholm Jr.’ type defenceman, middle-six forward
A physical defenceman to shore up the blue line and a middle-six forward might be at the top of the Edmonton Oilers’ shopping list.
With the team tight to the salary cap, making a potential trade for a goaltender tough, The Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta reported tuesday the team could look to make other in-season moves. Among them, a trade for an “Ekholm Jr.” type of defenceman could be something they want to accomplish.
“I think if they do make moves this season, it is likely to shore up other holes on the roster,” said Pagnotta on The Fan 960. “They can bring in another physical D, Ekholm Jr., at a lower cap, if they’d like to do that. And if they can get a mid-six guy, that’s again something they’d love to do.”
“But with a very limited cap space – it’s going to take some serious creativity.”
Who that player is remains to be seen, as Pagnotta did not suggest any names in discussions. He added that a move between the pipes could have to wait until the off-season as of the salary cap constraints.
key Takeaways:
- The Oilers are prioritizing addressing needs beyond goaltending due to salary cap limitations.
- They are seeking a physical defenceman, described as an “Ekholm Jr.” – a player with similar qualities to Mattias ekholm but at a lower cost.
- A middle-six forward is also on their radar.
- Any trades will require important financial maneuvering.
FAQ:
Q: what does “Ekholm Jr.” mean?
A: It refers to a defenceman who possesses similar physical attributes and defensive capabilities as mattias Ekholm, but is likely younger and carries a lower salary cap hit.
Q: Why aren’t the Oilers focusing on a goaltender?
A: The Oilers are currently constrained by the salary cap,making it difficult to acquire a goaltender without making other significant roster changes.
Q: When could the Oilers potentially address the goaltending position?
A: A move for a goaltender may be more feasible during the off-season when the Oilers have more adaptability with their salary cap.
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