Avoiding Zach Hyman: 5 Other Wingers the Oilers Should Pursue

Reilly Smith (fading two-way talent)

The 6’1, 182lbs RW had a bit of a down year offensively for the Golden Knights. He potted 14 goals and 25 points with 15 (8g, 7a) coming at 5-on-5 and was 3rd among Vegas forwards in shots (124), 4th in individual scoring chances (97), 2nd in rebounds created (12).

As part of the Knights’ 2nd line, he contributed to keeping things close but was only their 3rd most effective line posting a +1.15 relSC% and -3.7 relGF% while Smith was on the ice. He’s a reliable two-way forward who’s counted on to play a role on both special teams units and his scoring numbers seem likely to rebound.

Despite the Knights loving the player, their cap situation might necessitate they move on from Smith and his 5mil cap hit for 1 more year in order to pursue a proper 1st line C. In conjunction with his down year, this should keep the cost to acquire him reasonable.

Likely cost: Marody/Kahun & a 3rd

Alex Killorn (quintessential complement)

The 2-time Cup-winning 6’1, 199lbs LW potted 15 goals and 33 points in 56 games last season with 18 (8g, 10a) of those points coming at 5-on-5. He ranked 5th among Lightning forwards in scoring (both overall and 5-on-5), 3rd in shots (122), and 5th in individual scoring chances (77) while having a bit of a down-year in terms of outsourcing opposition at even strength (49.1 GF%, -5.8 relGF%). Despite this, Killorn was still an effective member of a dominant NHL team- particularly in the playoffs where he added 17 points (8g, 9a) in 19 games en route to winning the Cup.

Due to the impending cap crunch, it stands to reason that Tampa might be prepared to move on from one of their veteran forwards and Killorn (4.5mil x 2) seems to be a popular name in the rumor mill. One would hope a manager “helping” Tampa out of their cap crunch would be able to take some advantage and keep the cost down but Seattle would likely be able to push the price up somewhat.

Likely cost: Alex Stalock & a 2nd