Oilers likely releasing goalie and defenceman to free agency, say insiders
Photo credit: Edmonton Oilers Raw
Offseason deadlines are forcing some quick decisions for the Oilers, who seem likely to release RFA goalie Olivier Rodrigue, and let defender John Klingberg walk.
It's a bit surprising to see the Oilers expected to let Rodrigue walk, who was considered the team's top goalie prospect until earlier this season. Now, they've got a new prospect to take the AHL job.
Oilers not likely to qualify RFA goalie Olivier Rodrigue
According to recent report from Jason Gregor, the Oilers are unlikely to qualify Rodrigue with Samuel Jonsson coming over to North America this offseason.
Jonsson racked up accolades in Europe last season, and is now considered the Oilers top goalie prospect.
On the other hand, the organization has just never seen Rodrigue take the next step to be ready for an NHL role. He had a down season in the AHL this year with a .897 save percentage, and at 6'1, he's on the much smaller side of NHL goalies.
Drafted in the second round of the 2018 draft, it looks like this could be the end of Rodrigue's run in the Oilers organization. If so, the Oilers may look into a temporary third goalie.
NHL insider says John Klingberg is likely to leave Oilers in free agency
According to insider Chris Johnston, the Oilers will also likely allow John Klingberg to walk in free agency, which is less of a surprising move.
Klingberg signed a cheap deal in Edmonton late in the year to rebuild his career after missing significant time with injury.
He actually played better than expected, scoring 4 points in 11 games and suiting up for 19 playoff games. Klingberg will be able to get much more in free agency than Edmonton can pay.
There's going to be significant changes to the Oilers roster at all levels for next season despite being just games away from a Stanley Cup the last two seasons. It's time for Edmonton to finally go all-in.
| POLL | ||
JUIN 26 | 1025 ANSWERS Oilers likely releasing goalie and defenceman to free agency, say insiders Do you think the Oilers should re-sign Olivier Rodrigue? | ||
| Yes | 403 | 39.3 % |
| No, let him walk to make room for others | 622 | 60.7 % |
| List of polls | ||
TRENDING NOW
