Edmonton Oilers top trade target out of commission with injury
Heading into this year's trade deadline, the Oilers have been rumoured to be looking to add a high-impact offensive forward to the second line. The prime target for the Oilers has been Jake Guentzel from the Pittsburgh Penguins, but now that plan might have to change as he sustained an injury last night.
With around ten minutes left in the third period, Guentzel took a hard hit from Panthers defenceman Niko Mikkola, and fell into the boards awkwardly. Taking a close look at the replay, fans have caught Guentzel's left hand getting crushed against the boards.
Guentzel left the game right after and was unable to return for the rest of the night. An update on his condition could come as soon as today from Penguins coach Mike Sullivan, after he undergoes some medical tests.
Worst case scenario, Guentzel suffered a broken wrist or hand and could be out for nearly two months or more with rehabilitation. Moreover, sometimes offensive players struggle when returning from hand and wrist injuries, making a Guentzel trade much riskier now. With 22 goals and 52 points in 50 games this year, the 29 year old pending free agent was the best option available for the Oilers, but they may need to pivot now.
According to several reports, the Oilers have also been interested in reunions with Jordan Eberle and David Perron at the trade deadline. Either player brings a veteran presence and a proven scoring ability to the second line, and would add to the Oilers greatest strength in their offence. With Guentzel's injury now, all options are back on the table.
| POLL | ||
Will Guentzel be traded now that he's injured? | ||
| No, Penguins will keep him | 218 | 50.8 % |
| Yes, a team will risk it | 165 | 38.5 % |
| See Results | 46 | 10.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
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