Oilers addressed perceived biggest concern during trade deadline
Photo credit: Imagn Images
As the dust finally settles on the 2025 NHL trade deadline, Oilers GM Stan Bowman did a respectable job beefing up his team.
Coming into the trade deadline, the Oilers were looking to address a significant need on their roster -- size and grit.
Well, GM Stan Bowman did just that by acquiring Trent Frederic and Jake Walman.
Bowman displays masterclass at the deadline
Standing at 6'2" and 205 pounds, Walman brings a strong physical presence to the Oilers' defense. Known for his toughness, ability to win puck battles, and clear the crease, Walman is the type of player who can help Edmonton compete in the physical areas of the game.
During yesterday's game against the Stars, Oilers fans got a glimpse of their new blue-liner, and Bowman's move is already paying dividend.
After the big 5-4 win, Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch made himself available for his usual interviews, highlighting Walman's immediate impact on the ice.
«I thought that was a heck of a start. The pass that he made on the Hyman goal, just the composure breaking the pucks out,» said Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch. «The second period, he had that big hit in the offensive zone (on Rantanen), blocking the blue line, getting pucks through.
«There's so much we liked about his game. Sometimes as a player, you have that adrenaline and you're really excited about that one, but I think we'll see a lot of play like he did tonight, and that's why management thought very highly of him to trade for him, which I think is really going to pay off for us.»
While fans eagerly await to see what Trent Frederic will bring to the table, it's clear they have a winner in Jake Walman.
Although the Edmonton Oilers decided not to make any changes to their goaltending, they're hopeful that Walman's size and grit will ease up Stuart Skinner's workload.
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