Edmonton Oilers fans call for veteran forward to be waived

As the Oilers needed to make roster cuts earlier this season, Mattias Janmark was among the top candidates to be waived or traded. Now as the Oilers early season struggles continue, it looks like a position the Oilers could upgrade on.

In the Oilers' last game against the Washington Capitals, Janmark played less than 9 minutes of ice time at even strength. Even in limited minutes, he was on the ice for 7 scoring chances against.

Janmark is a solid penalty killer that was a key part of these Oilers' first Cup run, but unfortunately, he was rewarded with a contract that's made him less valuable. At $1.45M, it's a mild overpayment that the Oilers could spread around elsewhere.

To seal the deal, Janmark doesn't provide any offence at all. He's scored just 6 goals in his last 157 games, which just isn't good enough for that contract value. Especially when the Oilers have quality prospects in the minor leagues who could fulfill the role at a cheaper price.

The Oilers could either waive or try to trade Janmark, but it may be a move that's unpopular in the room. This is a criticism lobbied about many Oilers roster moves, as Janmark's been around and formed close relationships with this roster.

At some point, the Oilers may be backed into a corner to make a roster move to address their slow start. An easy place to start is upgrading on Janmark.