Cam Fowler, Oilers Top Defence Trade Target, Traded By Anaheim Ducks

The Edmonton Oilers have been heavily linked to Fowler in the last few weeks, with Bob Stauffer repeatedly hinting at him as a very likely option.

However, the Ducks are pulling the trigger on this trade much earlier than expected, and the Oilers will now have to pivot their attention elsewhere.

Cam Fowler is a 33 year old left shot defenceman that's played his entire 991 game NHL career with the Anaheim Ducks, and he has two years left on his contract for $6.5M.

The Edmonton Oilers are going to add a defenceman in trade this season, and Cam Fowler was one of the top listed options, but perhaps it's a good thing the Oilers missed out.

However, the Blues only sent a second round draft pick and a prospect for Fowler with retained salary - a very cheap trade.

Drafted in the first round 14 years ago, there was a time when Fowler was a serviceable top four, smooth skating, puck moving defender.

Now, Cam Fowler hasn't been an effective player in the last two seasons for the Ducks, at all. Anaheim is a weak team that could have negative effects on him and his play, but Fowler is ranking as one of the worst defenceman in the NHL.

At the price tag of $6.5M for the next two seasons, it's a significant risk that Fowler can turn around his game entirely after switching to a new team for the first time in his career. The Blues clearly believe he will, but the Oilers may have been right not to bite on Fowler.

Another shocking aspect about this deal is trading Fowler 9 games away from reaching the 1000 game milestone, all with the Ducks.

For him to be traded now is a ruthless decision from GM Pat Verbeek, instead of allowing him to stay just 9 more games, have the ceremony, and move on.

We'll see how Fowler can perform in St. Louis, which will really grade out the trade. Still, the Oilers may have been smart to pass on this deal, and to search for a better fit on their blueline.