5 Players The Edmonton Oilers Should Trade For From The Jets

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LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – APRIL 20: Connor Hellebuyck #37 of the Winnipeg Jets tends net during the second period against the Vegas Golden Knights in Game Two of the First Round of the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs at T-Mobile Arena on April 20, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images) /

Connor Hellebuyck

The possibility of the Edmonton Oilers acquiring goaltender Connor Hellebuyck from the Winnipeg Jets is something to consider. While there are certainly arguments to be made for and against this potential trade, I believe that the Oilers would benefit greatly from adding Hellebuyck to their roster.

First and foremost, Hellebuyck is one of the best goaltenders in the NHL right now. He won the Vezina Trophy in 2020 as the league’s best goaltender and has consistently put up strong numbers over the past few seasons. In 2020-21, he posted a .916 save percentage and a 2.58 goals-against average, while playing behind a Jets defence that was often shaky at best. The Oilers, on the other hand, have been struggling to find consistent goaltending for years now. Adding a proven performer like Hellebuyck would go a long way toward shoring up that position.

Another factor to consider is the Oilers’ current roster makeup. While they have some talented forwards in the likes of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, their defence and goaltending have been major areas of concern. Hellebuyck would provide a stabilizing presence in net, which would in turn take some pressure off of the defensemen. Furthermore, Hellebuyck’s ability to play a high volume of games could be a huge asset to the Oilers. The team has struggled with goaltending depth in recent seasons, and having a reliable starter who can play 60+ games would be a huge boost.

Of course, there are some potential downsides to this trade as well. The biggest issue would be the cost of acquiring Hellebuyck. The Jets would undoubtedly demand a high price for their star goaltender, and the Oilers would have to decide whether or not they’re willing to part with the assets that it would take to make this trade happen. Additionally, Hellebuyck is signed at a cap hit of $6.16 million, which could be a significant financial commitment for the Oilers.

Overall, I believe that the potential benefits of trading for Connor Hellebuyck outweigh the risks. The Oilers desperately need consistent goaltending in order to compete in the tough Western Conference, and Hellebuyck would provide just that. While the cost of acquiring him would be steep, the Oilers have some promising young players in their system that they could potentially use as trade bait. If they can make this trade happen without sacrificing too much of their future, it could be a game-changer for the franchise.

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