Some solutions to the Edmonton Oilers blue line woes

Edmonton Oilers general manager Stan Bowman has some decisions to make ahead of the upcoming season. The main one he faces is improving the defensive unit for the roster.

The Oilers defensive unit looks bleak after a turn of events in August. The bright light again shines upon the Oilers' management, and this window of light is meant to build for success.

So how he Bowman approach the situation? Here are a few scenarios that he might consider.

Ethan Bear

Ethan Bear is an underrated defenseman, who could use a fresh start with the Edmonton Oilers. Even though he played for the team a few years ago, his speed alone would fill a certain void in the defense corps, along with his experience that comes into play. He would be an ideal replacement for Philip Broberg, who is young but has a different playing experience than Bear.

Most importantly, Bear's contract is worth around $2 million, where the Washington Capitals could retain half the salary. Both organizations would benefit from such a trade because of both teams' needs.

Bear can also log in at around 18 minutes per game, and in 275 career NHL games he has 343 blocked shots, 214 hits and 97 takeaways. He started his career as an Oiler and could be a band aid at least till the deadline.

Nils Lundkvist

Nils Lundkvist is another young defenseman who the Oilers may be able to pry from his current team. The fact that his contract is $1.25 million going into this season, helps increase the chances that Edmonton Oilers management might want to go for him. In general he is a good defenseman, underrated in many areas and in need of a new team.

Lundkvist has 39 points career-wise, with 30 coming from assists, and his career shots block total is 120. And with 108 hits in 144 games overall, he could be the ideal cheap rental or pickup for the team if they see fit.

Ty Emberson

Another approach for the Oilers would be to utilize defenseman Ty Emberson and see how he can handle the season as a young player. This would give the team time to consider other potential options, instead of making any irrational moves that may affect the roster.

Emberson has had great reviews and could be the next defenseman to make the jump in the Oilers' defense system. Working with assistant coach and Hockey Hall of Famer Paul Coffey may benefit the youngster in many ways, utilizing his assets to the benefit of the team.

The final scenario would be to offer a PTO to an unsigned player. What happens next depends entirely on the team's overall needs. Based on recent observations, the Edmonton Oilers organization must carefully consider their options before making any final decisions.

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