Edmonton Oilers repeatedly scouting one eastern conference team

Of course, it's not unusual for scouts to attend games as a matter of practice. Yet, Oilers' scouts have attended several Blue Jackets' games of late, including Edmonton's goalie scout, since the start of the season.

Specific details on which player, or position the Oilers' scout was focused on have not been specified. However, that the goalie scout was present at least narrows the position that is likely being watched.

In last night's game against the Leafs, Columbus started goalie Jet Greaves. With a GAA of 2.72 and SV% of .906, he could be the target, but it's not likely.

Columbus is battling for playoff position and will go dress the better goaltender on most nights; that has been Greaves.

Elvis Merslikins, on the other hand, has a record of 4-4-0, with a 3.20 GAA and .902 SV%. Columbus could be persuaded to trade him.

Whether it was Toronto the scouts were observing is also a matter of speculation. The Leafs have had their share of problems this season, both on and off the ice.

If their year continues to slip away, does John Tavares become available? With possibly the best contract in the NHL, and 3 more years of team control after this season, teams will be salivating to get their hands on Tavares. In 21 games this year, he has 12G and 27 points, and is natural born leader.

Could he go to Edmonton? It's not totally out of the question.

Of course, this is only speculation. More realistic is Edmonton's need for defensive help. Columbus players like Ivan Provorov, Andrew Peeke, or Adam Boqvist have been mentioned in general trade rumors as potential defensive options the Oilers might consider.