3 Oilers Trade Deadline Rumors We’re Glad That Never Happened

LD Vladislav Gavrikov

Coming into this year’s trade deadline, the Edmonton Oilers were in desperate need of defence. They were linked to multiple defensemen, from the aforementioned, Erik Karlsson, to Arizona Coyotes’ Jakob Chychrun, all the way to Columbus Blue Jacket’s defenseman, Vladislav Gavrikov. With the limitations the Oilers had due to their cap, they had trouble trying to add Karlsson or Chychrun to their team, which pointed everyone to zero in on Gavrikov. However, most were not thrilled to hear about that rumour as Gavrikov was very vocal that he will not re-sign with the Oilers if he gets traded here.

We sure understand that the main focus for Edmonton is to compete for the cup this year but also, but they want continued stability if they trade for a player at the deadline. Maybe leading to the deadline, the Jackets’ asking price for their defenseman was high for Holland and the Oilers to pull the trigger. No matter what the circumstances were, we are relieved that Gavrikov did not end up in Edmonton, where he for sure does not want to be. Too bad he ended up with the Pacific division rival, LA Kings, but nevertheless, Edmonton Oilers made the right decision on not trading for Gavrikov.