Oilers linked to acquiring punishing defenceman at trade deadline
Photo credit: Robert Edwards - Imagn Images
The Edmonton Oilers are gearing up for what should be an entertaining March 7th trade deadline, and GM Stan will look to make strategic additions to bolster his team. That said, the Oilers still face big uncertainties on their back-end, and all signs point to an inevitable upgrade on the blue-line. While the current market is relatively thin, an interesting discussion has been sparked regarding Seattle Kraken defenceman Jamie Oleksiak.
The Edmonton Oilers are coming off a disastrous 6-2 loss at the hands of the Anaheim Ducks last night.
Although the Oilers goaltending is partially to blame, defensive breakdowns and lacklustre play on the blue-line is starting to cost this team.
It's no secret that the Edmonton Oilers have been in the market for a right-hand shut-down defenceman, but Oilers insider Bob Stauffer mentioned that GM Stan Bowman could also be interested in adding an "off-radar" lefty as well.
Could the Oilers land Jamie Oleksiak?
Although Jamie Oleksiak doesn't necessarily fit Stauffer's "off-radar" description, he's certainly an intriguing option.
On a recent segment of the Whatchaos! Podcast, Bob Stauffer made an appearance, suggesting that the Edmonton Oilers are still very much interested in acquiring a defenceman at the trade deadline.
As per Oilers Nation, Frank Seravalli listed Oleksiak as the «Ideal Fit» to fill Edmonton's need for a defensive defenceman.
QUESTION: What type of defenceman is Oleksiak, and how would you describe him for those unfamiliar with his game?
ANSWER: Mostly defensive, big shot blocker. Not physical but uses his reach well.
This isn't really important, but fun tidbit: he has sneaky good hands. He'll often dangle guys in practice and I've been calling for him to be a shootout option for a couple years. Rarely uses that skill in-game though.
ANSWER: Mostly defensive, big shot blocker. Not physical but uses his reach well.
This isn't really important, but fun tidbit: he has sneaky good hands. He'll often dangle guys in practice and I've been calling for him to be a shootout option for a couple years. Rarely uses that skill in-game though.
QUESTION: What would be the ideal return for Oleksiak? The Oilers recently acquired Frederic, which raises hopes that they can still pursue a player like Oleksiak for their blue line.
ANSWER: The return is a little tricky after the Frederic deal. Ideal return would be Savoie, but I imagine the Kraken would have to retain 50% on Oleksiak, plus add something or take on bad $ like Arvidsson.
ANSWER: The return is a little tricky after the Frederic deal. Ideal return would be Savoie, but I imagine the Kraken would have to retain 50% on Oleksiak, plus add something or take on bad $ like Arvidsson.
In 62 regular season games this season, Oleksiak has notched 13 points and posts a -8 rating on the ice.
While his numbers havent been fantastic, perhaps a change of scenery could breathe life back into his game.
Is Jamie Oleksiak the answer the Oilers are seeking? Time will tell.
source: Oilers Nation
| POLL | ||
MARS 5 | 687 ANSWERS Oilers linked to acquiring punishing defenceman at trade deadline Do you think the Edmonton Oilers should go for Jamie Oleksiak? | ||
| Yes | 436 | 63.5 % |
| No | 251 | 36.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
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