Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman Drops a Bomb Regarding The Edmonton Oilers

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Skyler Walker
November 9, 2023 (12:53)

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The Oilers are facing a significant goaltending challenge in the unfolding 2023-24 NHL season. Jack Campbell's stint in the AHL and the shared 1A/1B role between Calvin Pickard and Stuart Skinner have left the team's Stanley Cup aspirations hanging in the balance.

General Manager Ken Holland is actively seeking solutions, sparking rumors connecting the Oilers to goaltenders like John Gibson of the Anaheim Ducks or Jake Allen of the Montreal Canadiens. However, Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman introduces two intriguing names�Jordan Binnington from the St. Louis Blues and Juuse Saros from the Nashville Predators.

''I do think they are contemplating things, looking at several options. There've been reports of Jordan Binnington, but unless the Blues are giving up on the season, they need to replace him and won't be taking Campbell. Binnington's also a $6-million cap hit, which would take quite a bit of finagling. Not impossible, but challenging. They've talked to Montreal � which doesn't need a goalie � about the possibility of Jake Allen, but I don't sense anything imminent. Watching Juuse Saros almost single-handedly beat the Flames on Tuesday reminds that he's the true prize, but in addition to any return, it might cost the team an 18-wheeler full of Alberta crude and media-meal perogies.''

''We will see where this goes, including if the Oilers look at one major trade to deal with multiples issues. For example, a goalie and a defenceman. Or, a goalie and a depth forward with some edge. Another thing to remember: Canada is on a lot of no-trade lists.''

-Elliotte Friedman

Binnington, with his $6-million cap hit and the Blues' commitment to the season, poses acquisition challenges. Meanwhile, discussions with Montreal about Jake Allen are ongoing.

Addressing the goaltending situation is imperative for the Oilers, with Saros standing out as a potential ideal solution. The 28-year-old Finn, with a manageable $5 million cap hit, brings consistent excellence and durability to the table, establishing himself as a top-tier goaltender.

As the Oilers navigate through their options, the acquisition of a goaltender of Saros's caliber could be the linchpin in overcoming early-season challenges and reinforcing their quest for success.