Former Oilers first round pick reportedly available for trade

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Liam McCormick
January 18, 2024 (3:31 PM)

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The Seattle Kraken shot well above expectations last year and were able to make the playoffs in just their second year as a franchise, but this season, the shine as worn off a bit. Now heading into the trade deadline, the Kraken are expected to be sellers - and could move former Oilers legend Jordan Eberle.

Chris Johnston released a list of the top 30 trade targets at the deadline this year for the Athletic, and Eberle appears as the 21st player on the list. Johnston recognizes the facts that Eberle has had a tough year and is a pending unrestricted free agent at the end of this year. That, in combination with his clear offensive talent and his playoff experience with the Islanders, makes Eberle a great trade target for contending teams.

The goals have not come easily for Eberle this season, and the Kraken remain on the outside of the playoff picture even after a red-hot start to 2024. With unrestricted free agency on the horizon, that combination of factors could see the veteran winger moved by March 8. Contenders will find some comfort in his history of scoring big goals.

Now 33 years old with only 6 goals and 21 points in 40 games this season, Eberle would likely cost very little to acquire in a trade. Considering his high cap hit of $5.5M this season could bring his trade cost down even more, and would likely require Seattle to retain salary.

The Oilers are rumoured to be pursuing an addition to the forward group at the trade deadline, but it seems extremely unlikely a reunion with Eberle would be possible. His high salary would be tough to fit into the Oilers' roster, especially considering cheaper options like Corey Perry available on the market. Still, it would be great to see Eberle get into the playoffs once again and have another shot at a Stanley Cup. Everyone knows Eberle has the clutch gene in him, maybe a contending team takes a bet on him for the rest of this season.