Edmonton Oilers linked to multiple waiver claim targets early next season

Multiple insiders have already reported the Oilers could be looking at the waiver wire in hopes of nabbing a younger goaltender with potential to replace Calvin Pickard. There's plenty of talent available, giving the Oilers a chance to make a low-risk move.

In a new piece for the Athletic, analyst Allan Mitchell identified 5 targets for the Edmonton Oilers that are expected to hit waivers next season.

The class is headed by Bruins goaltender Michael DiPietro, who's been linked to the Oilers before. The 26 year old has been stellar in the AHL the last two seasons, but is blocked by the Bruins' current veteran tandem. He'll find himself on waivers this fall, or traded to another team before Boston loses him for nothing.

The next most interesting candidate is naturally another goaltender. The St. Louis Blues also have a strong tandem of Jordan Binnington and Joel Hofer, which will likely make 24 year old Colten Ellis available on waivers.

Ellis has posted a .922 and .924 in the last two years of his play in the AHL after being drafted in the 3rd round in 2019. He looks NHL ready now, but will likely be on waivers as the Blues minors goaltender.

Mitchell also identified a few skaters the Oilers may take a look at, but it seems more unlikely as they already have quality depth at all positions. Samuel Fagemo from the Winnipeg Jets and Matej Blumel of the Boston Bruins could be targets at forward, and Leafs defenceman William Villeneuve could be a target for right shot defence depth.

The Oilers will be looking to put some final touches on their roster in the coming weeks, and hopefully can upgrade their goaltending position with a quality waiver pickup.