Edmonton Oilers may be targeting specific quality in trade for new defenceman

As their blue line core currently stands, the Oilers have been ranked to have the best defence in the league. They've got an incredibly deep lineup, but if there's one problem, it's that there's too many lefties.

Recently, Oilers insider Jason Gregor mentioned the team's need for a right shot defenceman - but concluded that they don't have a trade partner with the New Jersey Devils who have available players.

With Mattias Ekholm, Darnell Nurse, Jake Walman, Brett Kulak, and even depth option Atro Leppanen, the Oilers clearly have one too many high end left shot defenceman. On the right side, the Oilers only have Stecher and Emberson beyond Bouchard.

The Oilers will be hard-pressed to make any significant trade without giving up some prospects they strongly believe in - or a rostered defenceman. The team are still striving for a perfectly constructed roster for the playoffs, so they'll look for an addition at least.

Even if the Oilers don't find a trade partner now for a right shot defenceman, they'll be just fine entering the season with their core. By the time the trade deadline rolls around, there'll be plenty more options available. Some names to watch will include Adam Pelech, Timothy Liljegren, Jamie Oleksiak, and much more.

We'll see how the Oilers defence fair early in the season, as that may influence some decisions they make in roster construction.