Looking at Options to Improve Oilers Goaltending Situation

3. Joonas Korpisalo

In recent days, there have been rumors that the Oilers and Columbus Blue Jackets were having discussions regarding goaltender Joonas Korpisalo, though they apparently fell through due to the high asking price. In my personal opinion, I think the Oilers would be better off not pursuing this option, as his numbers have been quite inconsistent since joining the league.

The Blue Jackets goaltender to go after would be Elvis Merzlikins, though it appears they are wanting to keep him and move on from the 27-year-old Korpisalo. While he has had some good moments in the NHL and is younger than the Oilers current options, he has just a career goals against average (GAA) of 2.90 and a save percentage (SV%) of .905.

The one positive regarding Korpisalo is that he has just one season remaining on a reasonable cap hit of $2.8 million. However, given the reported assets they are seeking for him, the Oilers would be better off sticking with what they currently have in Smith and Koskinen for now. But, if they do feel they need a change, he is certainly available.