Highly controversial defenceman linked to tryout contract with Edmonton Oilers

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Liam McCormick
August 24, 2024 (5:40 PM)

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The Edmonton Oilers are clearly in the market to acquire another defenceman before the season begins, and multiple sources are suggesting one controversial candidate - Anthony DeAngelo.

The Edmonton Journal recently suggested Tony DeAngelo as a potential option for the Oilers on a tryout contract or one year deal before training camp. Out of any other candidates, DeAngelo would be one of the younger options that comes with the draft pedigree of being a first round pick of the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2014.

Now 28 years old, DeAngelo is coming off a disappointing season with the Carolina Hurricanes. He only played 31 games, scoring 3 goals and 11 points with a tough -7 rating. DeAngelo has proven to be more successful in recent seasons, scoring more 50 points twice in the last 5 years.

The Oilers biggest roster hole is currently on their second pair defence alongside Darnell Nurse, who actually has a history with DeAngelo. The two played together on the 2014-15 Sault St. Marie Greyhounds, and Nurse could give the Oilers an insight into his play and presence in the locker room.

Of course, DeAngelo questions have been raised repeatedly about his character in the locker room. In Junior, DeAngelo was suspended for using a slur on the ice, and with the New York Rangers, DeAngelo got in a physical fight with goalie Alexander Georgiev which led to his contract termination.

Earlier this week, the Oilers had been linked to a number of other veteran defenceman on a tryout contract by insider Frank Seravalli. Tyson Barrie, Justin Schultz, and Kevin Shattenkirk are also options for the Oilers, all being much older and coming with more NHL experience - and less questions about their character.

The Edmonton Oilers are always known to be a team that takes second chances on players, and Tony DeAngelo is in the cards to be the next one up. We'll see in the next few weeks when the Oilers make their decision on their next defenceman.

Source for all DeAngelo Stats: PuckPedia