Goalie with connection to Oilers GM Stan Bowman made available after Blackhawks trade

The Oilers seem committed to their current tandem of Skinner and Pickard, but GM Stan Bowman has not ruled out trading for a goalie.

After the Hawks made a move to acquire Spencer Knight in exchange for Seth Jones, they now have 4 NHL goaltenders under contract - and are in a prime position to trade one of them.

Interestingly, Oilers General Manager Stan Bowman has a history with one of their goaltenders from his time with Chicago. Bowman signed the undrafted Swedish goalie Arvid Soderblom, who's had a quality season this year.

The 25 year old Soderblom is in the final year of his contract paying only $962K, and is a RFA at the end of this season. His low cap hit and expiring deal make him a prime trade candidate, but he is under team control as an RFA.

Soderblom struggled after joining the Blackhawks in the 2021-22 season, but this year has taken another step. In 29 games this year, Soderblom has an impressive .906 save percentage - but his previous 50 total NHL games were not up to standard.

Petr Mrazek may also be available for trade, and Oilers reporter Jim Matheson has indicated the Blackhawks will be shopping him.

The 33 year old goalie is a veteran of 423 games, but has a much higher $4.25M salary and has struggled this season with a .890 save percentage.

Trading for Soderblom would be the best option, and there may be a significant of confidence in his play with Bowman signing him in the past. There's some risk in acquiring a goalie with such little NHL experience, but if it comes at a cheap cost, it could be worth a gamble.

At the very least, another door has opened for the Oilers to explore possible goalie trades this season. It's by fair their weakest position, and must be strengthened before entering the playoffs.