Edmonton Oilers Rumors: Two Teams Top List for Eberle

TSN’s Darren Dreger declared that Edmonton Oilers winger Jordan Eberle “will definitely get traded” this offseason. He also said there are offers already on the table for him.

There have been recent rumors surrounding a possible Oilers trade involving Alex Galchenyuk for Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, and then some. However, Bob Stauffer shut down the speculation Thursday, and Dreger also said anything involving Galchenyuk didn’t look like it was in the cards.

“No, I don’t think so,” Dreger told Edmonton’s TSN 1260 Thursday. “For the reasons that we’ve talked about. And look, the Oilers value Jordan Eberle. It’s not like they’re willing to take just about anything to move out his contract. I mean, the cap relief is of significance, but they also see an opportunity here to adda a piece that can make them better or provide something than Jordan Eberle was willing to provide.”

Dreger also mentioned that at least six teams are in on Eberle, and that the Colorado Avalanche and New York Islanders are currently the front runners. When it comes to the possible return for Eberle, there are many options.

Edmonton Oilers

Avalanche Possibilities

First off, the Oilers could try to acquire a big name from Colorado. The Avalanche have taken a “no one is untouchable” stance, of course with the exception of Nathan MacKinnon, and likely Mikko Ratanen and Tyson Jost. This opens up a possibility where Edmonton could in turn ask for players like Matt Duchene or Gabriel Landeskog.

Both are proven offensive forwards and can help the Oilers grow in key areas. Duchene can provide more centre depth and even take over on the top-six, which would in turn allow Leon Draisaitl to stay on the top line with Connor McDavid. This, of course, would likely see Ryan Nugent-Hopkins moved, and not so much Eberle, but it’s still possible. Landeskog, though a left-winger, wouldn’t add too much depth on the right side, but would provide more offence and perhaps make a bigger impact on the top line.

Then again, the Oilers also have the option of relieving cap space and acquiring a less proven winger. When it comes to the Avalanche, their highest-scoring RW was Ratanen, but he’s off limits. That being said, Edmonton could take on Rene Bourque. Though he is not the flashy goal-scorer he used to be, he put up 12 goals this season and could be sparked by a change in scenery, especially in Edmonton.

However, the best option seems for Edmonton to trade for a right-handed defenceman who is also a power-play quarterback. Tyson Barrie’s name has been coming up on the block, and with Colorado needing more offence, this is a deal they would possibly jump at. Barrie can not only play a shutdown game, but he can move the puck and put up impressive point totals. That’s just what the Oilers need.

Islanders Possibilities

The biggest name that the Islanders have for the Oilers is Travis Hamonic. A solid, veteran right-handed blueliner, Hamonic has the ability at both ends of the rink that they need. Though his scoring totals were not impressive this past season, he has shown puck-moving ability throughout his career.

However, Hamonic did struggle this year, and with his withdrawn trade request last season, it is hard to see if he will fit in well with the Oilers. This is simply a warning sign that the Oilers should watch out for, especially if they are giving up an avid goal-scorer like Eberle.

The Islanders also have forwards like Ryan Strome and Josh Bailey, though the Islanders would likely be more able to give up the former. Baily finished as the second-highest scorer on the team with 13 goals and 56 points this season.

Next: Edmonton Oilers: Other Teams Targeting Russell?

Options

Overall, the Oilers have plenty of choices, and they should wait and see the best offer they can get. Perhaps the Vegas Golden Knights will come up with an interesting offer, or Eberle will stay put. There’s nothing definite right now.