Grading the Edmonton Oilers on their trade deadline 

As the Edmonton Oilers gear up for the stretch run in preparation for the playoffs, they made some key moves at the trade deadline to bolster their roster. How well did they do in addressing some of their needs? Here, we will grade the work done by the Oilers this past week with hopes that the moves made will greatly improve the team’s chances to win the Stanley Cup.

Additions of Adam Henrique and Sam Carrick

The Oilers clearly addressed some of their depth up front with the key acquisitions of both Adam Henrique and Sam Carrick from the Anaheim Ducks. Henrique brings with him a breadth of experience after spending 14 years in the NHL with New Jersey and Anaheim. Also, he can provide added leadership to the Oilers, having been alternate captain on the previous teams he had suited up for. More importantly, Henrique will provide great flexibility, as he can slot in as a strong center option on the third line, as well as be injected anywhere in the top six for an all-out offensive attack. In addition, he has proven to be a consistent scorer throughout his career, averaging close to 20+ goals a season. 

Sam Carrick, brings with him his aggressive game and feistiness, as his 90 PIM accumulated with the Ducks instantly makes him the leader in that department on his new Oilers team. Added to the fact he can deliver some bone-rattling hits, along with an added scoring touch with 8 goals in 61 games with the Ducks, he will be a perfect addition to the Oilers’ checking fourth line heading into the playoffs. 

Although they weren’t superstar additions, they do move the needle in terms of making the Oilers a better team than they were before. As well, it showed that management cared seriously about winning and wasn’t about to just sit this one out just because the team had been strong and doing well so far.

Grade: A-