The Edmonton Oilers have been front and centre in trade rumours recently with the team reportedly shopping struggling forward Andrew Mangiapane.
The club signed the forward on July 1st to a two-year contract carrying a $3.6 million annual average value. He was signed to hopefully solidify the Oilers’ depth scoring but has been unable to do that so far.
Through 42 games this season, Mangiapane has scored 11 points (five goals, six assists) and has found himself as a healthy scratch in recent weeks.
Still, the Oilers are in search of depth scoring, according to NHL insider David Pagnotta.
Oilers need to upgrade their depth scoring
In speaking with Oilersnation, Pagnotta pointed out that the Oilers could upgrade either the wings or down the middle.
This presents the Oilers with plenty of options and potential trade targets to pursue. Especially with the failure of the Mangiapane signing, it is clear that the Oilers need to upgrade their depth scoring.
It has been an issue that has plagued the Oilers for years and it has no signs of slowing down. Currently of the teams’ 159 goals scored, 55 have come from two players; Connor McDavid (30) and Leon Draisaitl (25).
They have been trying to get more out of their team with forwards lik; Matt Savoie, Isaac Howard, and Jack Roslovic.
Oilers could bolster blueline
In addition to the need for some more depth scoring, Pagnotta also linked the Oilers to the Winnipeg Jets. He specifically named two defenceman, Logan Stanley and Luke Schenn.
The team has struggled in suppressing their chances against this season. If the club does have interest, it would show that they are taking this seriously.
According toevolving-hockey.com, the Oilers sit 27th in goals against per 60, ninth in corsi against per 60, and 18th in expected goals against. It is clear that they must allow less quality chances against.
Stanley is a 27 year old left-shot defenceman who stands 6’7 tall and is best known for his shutdown defensive prowess.Luke Schenn is a 36 year old right-handed defenceman who has carved out a lengthy career as a bottom-pairing defender. The veteran has also played over 1,100 games in his career and has a Stanley Cup ring.
Both could help the Oilers to solidify their backend. They may not be needle movers but they can help provide strenght.