Edmonton Oilers Pursuing Impact Trade Before Regular Season

There's now only one game of preseason hockey left for the Oilers, and the team's biggest concern out of training camp is the defence. Newcomers Ty Emberson and Josh Brown are slotted to be on the opening night roster, but neither player has significantly impressed in preseason - Josh Brown in particular has struggled.

According to the 2 Mutts Hockey Podcast, the Oilers could make a trade to upgrade their defence sooner rather than later.

This lines up with previous reports from NHL insider Frank Seravalli that the Oilers have been pursuing a trade for a top four defenceman since before preseason. The Oilers are reportedly close to signing Travis Dermott to a contract, but that's another depth fixture.

The Oilers are a team clearly destined for a long run in the playoffs, but they'll need the additional help on the blue line. Even Darnell Nurse struggled significantly in the playoffs last year, and for the Oilers to have the best chance to win they need a proven shut down defender next to him. Analysts have suggested a number of trade candidates for Edmonton, but more will become available as the season progresses.

Every roster spot is incredibly valuable on a team like the Oilers with Stanley Cup aspirations. They'll have a long regular season to tweak the lineup and perfect their approach, because this year is truly Cup or Bust for Connor McDavid and the Oilers.