Edmonton Oilers: Eberle, Pouliot Lack Trade Value

The Edmonton Oilers look a lot better than they did in previous years, but obviously, there’s still ways to go. Along with that, there are definitely more moves that still need to be made.

Some of the recent trade speculation revolves around a pair of wingers. While the Oilers have supposedly been trying to trade Benoit Pouliot for a while now, as per some sources, there is more talk surrounding Jordan Eberle.

Eberle’s name has been mentioned a number of times this year, and his decline in performance is making matters worse. By the same token, it has apparently taken a toll on his trade value.

Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman appeared on Oilers Now to go more in depth about the trade rumours.

According to Friedman, there isn’t a lot of interest surrounding those two names. In fact, if there was, it’s possible the team would possibly still have Taylor Hall on the roster.

"“I think if there was more interest in Eberle, Hall would never had been traded. They’re just isn’t as much interest in those guys right now, not at what the Oilers would like to do…”-Elliotte Friedman on Oilers Now"

The performance of the two players has continually added to their decline in value. Eberle seems to have trouble shooting accurately, let alone hitting the net. He has missed many on-point shooting opportunities, even from a point blank range. Factoring in Eberle’s career numbers, as well as his sluggishness, it is evident he hasn’t shown full potential.

Pouliot seems to be useless at times and doesn’t contribute much to the play. Though he does create some opportunities, he can’t finish a play, or really maintain any speed or add too much to his game. Overall, it appears that his days with the Oilers may soon be behind him. Not to mention, his best years are behind the veteran winger.

The Oilers have to do something to raise their value, especially if they want something back. Both of them bring a high salary, so the Oilers would likely retain some of their contracts. In addition, Edmonton may need to package them with a draft pick to get a bigger return. If not, they would have to look for lesser-known names, and really take a look at stats and analytics to get the return they need.

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When it comes to getting a solid return, the Oilers need forwards (wingers, mainly) that bring scoring and speed to their game. They can’t get much out of Eberle or Pouliot to match either of those aspects. With another winger, they could improve their offence and get more scoring, which could seriously help the team flourish.

The Oilers have plenty of options moving forward, but need to be careful with their next move.