Connor McDavid sends a strong message to Oilers management before trade deadline

The Oilers will have a complicated salary cap situation with the status of Evander Kane still in the air, and multiple no-trade clauses preventing larger moves. Still, McDavid thinks the GM can get it done.

Speaking to the media after practice today, Connor McDavid said he expects management to pick up another «horse» to help them through the playoffs.

It's interesting to see McDavjd use the term horse, which can be slang for a high-impact player. McDavid isn't demanding a trade to the media, but maybe hinting that a big addition is needed.

This is the first full season with Jeff Jackson at the helm with his new general manager Stan Bowman. Former GM Ken Holland definitely made some weak moves, but a trade deadline pickup like Mattias Ekholm now always is the dream for Oilers fans.

The Oilers are struggling at the moment, but they've got the talent and experience to get it back on track. However, they're not the same team as last year. They may need a little more help at the deadline with a big trade.

Possibilities for an Oilers addition remain completely open ended. Goaltending seems to be their major position of weakness that needs addressing, but they've Oilers have also been connected to forwards and defenceman - both at the top and bottom of the lineup.

Whatever the Oilers do, McDavid will bring his absolute best in the playoffs this season, and do whatever he can to drag the team back to the Cup Final. Hopefully, this is the year they can finish the job.