The Edmonton Oilers have made a move to add defensive depth, acquiring defenseman Troy Stetcher and a 7th-round pick from the Arizona Coyotes in exchange for a fourth-round draft pick. This transaction marks the addition to the Oilers' defensive depth and checks the pre-deadline box of adding defensive depth.
🔁 TRADE 🔁
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) March 7, 2024
The #Oilers have acquired defenceman Troy Stecher along with a seventh-round selection in the 2024 Draft from the Coyotes in exchange for Edmonton’s fourth-round selection in the 2027 Draft.#LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/ibKM2FjEJv
Troy Stetcher is a seasoned defenseman with a wealth of NHL experience. Stetcher's versatility and reliability make him a valuable asset for any team looking for postseason success. While he may slot into a depth role as a 7th defenseman on the Oilers, his presence adds depth and stability to their defensive rotation, providing support if the team requires to use him.
For the Oilers, acquiring Stetcher not only addresses immediate needs but also enhances their defensive depth for the short term. As they jostle for playoff positioning in a fiercely competitive Pacific Division, having a dependable defenseman like Stetcher on their roster can prove invaluable down the stretch if any injuries occur. His experience and steady play bring a sense of calm to the Oilers' defensive unit.
He has played just under 500 career regular season games along with 21 playoff games. Both those numbers should only help as the team gets closer to the end of the season and into the playoffs.
The cost of acquiring Stetcher, a fourth-round draft pick, is a reasonable investment for the Oilers, especially considering the potential impact he could make if there is an injury in the top 6. While draft picks hold some value, the opportunity to strengthen the team's roster with a proven NHL defenseman like Stetcher outweighs the long-term benefits of retaining additional draft assets, especially a 4th-round pick.
The Edmonton Oilers' acquisition of Troy Stetcher signifies a proactive approach to addressing their roster depth needs. If they integrate Stetcher into their lineup, the Oilers aim to maximize his contributions while leveraging his experience and skill set to bolster their defensive depth. With Stetcher in the fold, the Oilers are better positioned to navigate the challenges of the NHL season and make a meaningful push toward postseason success.