3 potential trade targets for the Edmonton Oilers to bolster their defence

The Edmonton Oilers are facing a critical challenge as they search for a defenceman to bolster their blue line. Despite boasting one of the most potent offences in the NHL, the Oilers’ defensive struggles have been a major factor in holding them back from true championship contention. With Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl leading the way offensively, Edmonton’s defence has often been unable to provide the necessary support, leading to costly mistakes and allowing too many goals. Addressing this gap has become one of the team’s top priorities, as they aim to stay competitive in a tightly contested Western Conference.

However, acquiring a defenceman is far easier said than done for the Oilers. The team is currently up against the salary cap, meaning any trade would require careful manoeuvring to make the financials work. This could involve moving players with high salaries or getting creative with picks and prospects, making it a delicate balancing act. With the trade market already heating up, finding a player who fits within their cap structure and fills a key defensive need is no simple task.

Despite these challenges, the Oilers are committed to improving their defence as they look to make a deep playoff run. Whether it’s through a trade for a veteran with a proven track record or adding a younger, high-potential player, the Oilers know that improving their blue line is essential to reaching their full potential. The search is on, and the clock is ticking for Edmonton to make the right move to shore up their defence.

Luke Schenn

The Edmonton Oilers are actively seeking to bolster their blue line, and the struggling Nashville Predators could be the perfect trade partner. Both teams have a history of making deals centred around defencemen, with the Oilers’ acquisition of Mattias Ekholm for Tyson Barrie just two trade deadlines ago standing as a notable example. Given Nashville’s current position and the Oilers' needs, a trade between the two could be mutually beneficial.

One name that stands out as a potential target is Luke Schenn, a veteran defenceman with a reputation for being a physical presence on the ice. While Schenn is no longer in his prime, his ability to play in a second or third pairing role as a shutdown defender makes him a valuable asset for the Oilers. His rugged style of play could provide the Oilers with the grit and toughness they’ve been lacking on the blue line, especially when the games become more physical down the stretch and in the playoffs.

Schenn’s experience and physicality would give the Oilers a much-needed boost, offering a steadying presence in their defensive zone. As the Oilers look to make a deep playoff push, adding a player like Schenn could be the key to solidifying their blue line and giving their stars the support they need to contend for the Stanley Cup.

David Savard

Another potential trade partner for the Edmonton Oilers could be the Montreal Canadiens, a team that is in the midst of a rebuild and not immediately contending for the Stanley Cup. This gives the Oilers a unique opportunity to target players who may not be in the spotlight but could provide the depth and defensive stability they’re seeking. One such player is David Savard, a veteran defenceman known for his physical play, which is exactly what the Oilers need as they look to strengthen their blue line.

Savard may not be a household name like some of the league's top-tier defencemen, but his physicality and defensive acumen make him an ideal fit for the Oilers. While the Oilers’ offence is already one of the best in the league, they have struggled with keeping the puck out of their own net. Savard’s ability to shut down opposing forwards and provide a steady presence on the defensive end would allow the Oilers to focus more on generating offence without constantly worrying about their own zone.

The Oilers need immediate help on the defensive side, especially as they face off against teams with potent offences. Savard’s experience and his ability to disrupt opposing offences could make a significant difference for the Oilers in high-pressure playoff games. By adding a physical defenceman like Savard, Edmonton could solidify their defensive corps and complement their offensive firepower, giving them a more complete roster for a deep postseason run.

Kris Letang

The Edmonton Oilers are actively searching for a right-shooting defenceman to help strengthen their blue line. One name that could emerge as a potential trade target is Pittsburgh Penguins' veteran Kris Letang. His experience and skill-set make him an intriguing option for the Oilers, especially as they look to add a defenceman capable of contributing both defensively and offensively. However, his age and substantial contract present significant hurdles in making this trade happen.

Letang is signed through 2028 with a hefty cap hit of $6.1 million AAV, which could be a major stumbling block for the Oilers, who are already up against the salary cap. In order for this trade to work, Edmonton would likely need to have the Penguins retain a significant portion of Letang’s salary, or involve another team to absorb part of the cap hit. This could make the trade complicated, but it’s a risk worth considering, given the potential reward. Letang's leadership and experience, including his three Stanley Cup championships with the Penguins, would be invaluable for the Oilers, especially as they look to make a deep playoff run.

While the trade may be difficult to pull off, Letang’s Stanley Cup pedigree and two-way ability would provide a significant upgrade to the Oilers' defence. Adding a player of his calibre could give Edmonton the depth and experience they need to compete at the highest level. The Oilers will need to get creative to make this deal work, but Letang’s impact on the ice could be exactly what they need to put them over the top.

There is no doubt that the Edmonton Oilers will prioritize adding a defenceman to strengthen their blue line as they look to make a deep playoff run. Whether through a trade with teams like the Predators, Canadiens, or even a big move for someone like Letang, the direction they choose will be crucial in shaping their postseason success. Improving the defence is essential for the Oilers to compete against top teams and make a genuine push for the Stanley Cup.

Despite the challenges posed by their salary cap situation, Oilers management will need to get creative to find the right solution. The ability to make a significant addition to the blue line will likely be the difference between a team that makes noise in the playoffs and one that falls short. As the trade deadline approaches, expect the Oilers to explore all possible avenues to bolster their defence and give their offence the support it needs to truly contend for a championship.

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