Top NHL Insider Says Oilers Top Trade Target Will be Moved Imminently

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Liam McCormick
November 19, 2024 (7:08 PM)

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On the most recent edition of Saturday's Headlines, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported that the Columbus Blue Jackets will be making a move with David Jiricek imminently.

»David Jiricek, a young player, first round pick a couple years ago, he's not playing. Don Waddell said tonight that he hopes to sort this out over the next few days.»
- Elliotte Friedman

The Edmonton Oilers have been in the trade market since the beginning of the season, looking for a right handed defenceman to play in the top four next to Darnell Nurse. Edmonton's been connected to Jiricek, an interesting 20 year old option.

Drafted 6th overall in 2022, Jiricek has played 54 NHL games and 84 AHL games already - plenty of professional hockey for a player his age.

Jiricek scored at a fantastic rate in the AHL, was a standout performer in the World Juniors 2 years ago, but hasn't been able to translate his game to the NHL yet. The Blue Jackets could be giving up on Jiricek early now that their relationship has soured, and if the Oilers can buy low on him, it could be an interesting opportunity.

Another great benefit to acquiring Jiricek is his contract status. Jiricek is still on his entry level deal for $950K, and will be under team control for much longer afterwards. For a cap-strapped team like the Oilers, getting contributions from cheap players is crucial.

The Oilers were reported to have sent scouts to last night's Blue Jackets game, potentially scouting Jiricek for a move that could happen in the coming days.

Sportsnet analyst Jason Bukala recently broke down Jiricek's game amid the trade rumours, concluding that the young Czech defenceman has great defensive play, and upside, but hasn't adapted to NHL speed and positioning yet.

Acknowledging that Jiricek hasn't proven himself at the NHL level yet, trading for him at a high price could be a risky deal for the Oilers, and prevent them from having assets for a later trade.

If they do acquire Jiricek, it should be with certainty that he can be a player for the Oilers now and in the future. If Friedman's report holds up, we'll find out any minute now.