Oilers GM Stan Bowman addresses potential forward deal at trade deadline
There's plenty of discussion about the Edmonton Oilers trading for a defenceman or goalie at the trade deadline, but GM Stan Bowman's new comments indicate a change in 4th line center could happen too.
The Oilers are reportedly interested in acquiring a tough and versatile bottom six forward, likely as an upgrade on their 4th line center role.
Stan Bowman comments on plan for fourth line forward at trade deadline, evaluates Noah Philp and Derek Ryan
Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal interviewed Stan Bowman, where the Oilers general manager seemed to hint the team doesn't feel like Philp is fully ready to take on the 4th line center role of a Cup calibre team.
«He's pretty good in the American League. It's a step up here, players are better and that's (better faceoff percentage) going to come with more experience. These guys (NHL) are the best in the world. Going up against them isn't easy.»
Bowman mentioned that Philp had been benched a few times in recent games. If the Oilers are going to have the confidence of entering the playoffs with him, they can't be benching him against Buffalo in the regular season.
On the other hand, Bowman specified that Derek Ryan will find himself back on the NHL roster somehow. Whether it's after an injury later this season, or perhaps just an extra that travels with the team in the playoffs like Sam Gagner last year, Ryan will be back this season.
- Stan Bowman
Based on Bowman's comments, it seems the most likely path forward for the Oilers would be a trade to improve their 4th line. Philp is getting limited minutes from the coach in a try out, and Derek Ryan is clearly an aging vet that could be improved on.
Ryan will be up with the team again this year, and Philp surely has a future with Edmonton after coming out of retirement last year. For this year though, competing for a Stanley Cup, a trade may be needed.
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