Last night, some details may have become more clear about the Oilers plans to add a playoff caliber goaltender. With Jack Campbell seriously struggling in the AHL and the Oilers beginning to turn their season around, there's immense pressure on GM Ken Holland to add a goaltender.
According to insider David Pagnotta and Avry's Sports Show, Sharks GM Mike Grier was in attendance for last night's game in Edmonton. With reports surfacing that the Sharks are looking to sell assets, analysts are now connecting the Oilers to goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood.
Blackwood, now 27 years old, had a high pedigree after being drafted by the Devils in the second round of the 2015 NHL draft, and having a strong showing in the 2016 World Juniors. Through 19 games with the Sharks this year, Blackwood has been hit and cold, eventually posting a 3.83 GAA and .895 save percentage. Perhaps on a better team, those stats could improve significantly.
In trying to trade for a goaltender, time is of the essence for the Oilers. The team is on a six game winning streak, and crawling their way back into a playoff spot, but Stuart Skinner can't continue to star every game. Look for Ken Holland to make a trade for goaltending soon, perhaps after we see Campbell back in the NHL.
