Insider says Oilers biggest move has yet to come, looking to make high impact trade
With the Oilers recent hot-streak, they've restored their position as contenders as they look towards the playoffs. GM Ken Holland has a history of buying at the deadline, and the Oilers are reported to be buyers again. That theory is confirmed by Bob Stauffer on OilersNow.
With the second addition of a bottom 6 forward in Corey Perry, that means they're currently looking at the top 6 forward to bring in to bolster the already hot forward core. They've already been linked to Travis Konecny and Jake Guentzel, and those could be their prime targets that fall under this category.
Travis Konecny is having a great season, being on pace for 39 goals and 73 points. He's also a +16 and playing very impressive defense, with a 57.53 GF%. He is 26 and making $5.5M until 2024-25, and would be a great option. It's not clear if the Flyers are willing to sell at the deadline, as they currently sit 9th league wide in currently one of the weakest divisions. They made hold on to Konecny, so this may be a less probable trade target.
Jake Guentzel is also possible, with the penguins being 20th in the same division. He has 47 points in 40 games, and holds a cap hit of $6M with an expiring contract. He is Sidney Crosby's best winger however, so this one could also turn out to be nothing.
Each of these options would likely cost the Oilers a high price in trade, likely being a first round pick, multiple prospects, and a roster player to clear cap space. It would also take away the possibility of adding defence or goaltending, but doubling down on their offensive strength could be a gutsy but effective move from Holland.
| POLL | ||
Who do you want the Oilers to add? | ||
| Jake Guentzel | 187 | 36.2 % |
| Travis Konecny | 130 | 25.1 % |
| Other player(s) | 200 | 38.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
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