Bombshell report surfaces on Oilers top trade target

Heading into the trade deadline this season, the Oilers may divert from the expectations of acquiring a goaltender and instead try to add to their already lethal offence. In recent weeks the Oilers have been connected to a number of top-six forward, and even Corey Perry who's now eligible to re-join the NHL. However, the highest impact player the Oilers have been connected to in trade is Penguins forward Jake Guentzel.

ESPN's Emily Kaplan released a report moments ago that seems to indicate the Penguins are actively exploring trade destinations for Guentzel. Kaplan's report said the chances are high the Penguins will make the significant trade, and the next few weeks will be crucial for evaluating the team before making the decision to sell this year.


Guentzel has been primarily connected to the Edmonton Oilers and Vancouver Canucks to move to at the deadline. If the Oilers are going to pursue Guentzel, they'll need to find a way to make their salary situation work - which likely means getting out of the contracts of players like Cody Ceci, Brett Kulak, Warren Foegele, or if possible, Jack Campbell. The expected return for Guentzel would be a first round draft pick and at least one high end prospect, for the Oilers that could mean Xavier Bourgault or Philip Broberg.



Even if they acquire Guentzel, it seems the Oilers front office will be looking to make more moves. According to a report yesterday from Bob Stauffer, the Oilers could be looking to add multiple forwards, including some help in their bottom six. There, Corey Perry could be a fantastic fit. For now, we'll just have to wait and see how it plays out before the trade deadline, and if the Oilers can help their case for trade acquisitions by winning more games.