Stan Bowman Comments Resurface That Show When Oilers GM Plans to Make a Trade
The Edmonton Oilers have been connected to a litany of trade candidates this year as they position for another Stanley Cup Run, and some old comments from Stan Bowman suggests the team is getting ready to pounce on a deal.
NHL Insider Frank Seravalli recently reported that the Oilers haven't been active at all in trade discussions this year, perhaps the smart move as they analyze what they need to add.
That seems to be the strategy from Stan Bowman. At the beginning of the season the Oilers GM revealed in an interview with the Athletic that the team would begin to hone in on their trade plans after the Christmas break.
- Stan Bowman
Bowman did mention he would be interested in adding a defenceman, but the more important idea was spending the first half of the season evaluating what kind of player would make the most impactful addition.
With the improved play of Darnell Nurse this season and the consistent elevation of Brett Kulak, some are suggesting the Oilers may be better suited to add an impact player elsewhere- potentially a goaltender.
Oilers GM Stan Bowman's Trade Timeline Suggests He's Decided Which Player He Wants to Add in Trade
The Oilers could still surely use an upgrade to their blueline through the playoffs to not rely so heavily on Troy Stecher and Ty Emberson, but perhaps a more experienced depth defender could compliment the group better than a top four player.
If the Oilers do spend less on a defenceman, they may have more salary cap and trade assets left to target another addition to the team. A quality third goaltender could be an option, and Insider Bob Stauffer has also suggested a physical bottom six forward.
Credit to the Oilers defence for over performing expectations this season, especially the bounce back from Darnell Nurse, which can allow the Oilers to make other meaningful upgrades elsewhere on the roster.
As long as Bowman also sees the group of Bouchard, Ekholm, Nurse, and Kulak forming a strong top four, the Oilers trade deadline plans could be shifted away from the expectation of adding just a blueliner.
More details and analysis to come.
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