Oilers may be forced to cut ties with one defenceman before next season
Photo credit: Edmonton Oilers Raw
The Edmonton Oilers may be forced to cut one defenceman from their incredibly deep blueline heading into next season.
Analysts at the Athletic have ranked the Oilers defence group the best in the league, with top end talent and a total of at least 7 NHL calibre defenceman. It's a deep group, but it may put pressure for a move.
Stecher and Emberson are uncertain to make Oilers roster, says analyst
In a recent piece from Oilers analyst Allan Mitchell, Stecher and Emberson were listed in the uncertain category to both make the Oilers' roster.
The defense has some up in the air spots at No. 3 RH and No. 7. I can't imagine Atro Leppanen makes it as No. 7, but I'm also not certain Troy Stecher and Ty Emberson both make the team.
- Allan Mitchell
- Allan Mitchell
As it currently stands, the Oilers have Emberson and Stecher jockeying for the 6th and 7th defenceman role. That may continue on this season, but there are other players pushing for the 7th spot at least.
The Oilers clearly have high hopes for Emberson as a young player with experience on their roster, but Stan Bowman has also acquired Alec Regula, Atro Leppanen, and many more who will push for that 7th spot. Stecher and Emberson being similar skill sets too, while Regula and Leppanen could bring new strengths.
With the team likely aiming to save as much cap space as possible, one of Emberson or Stecher could be cut loose while the team tries a new depth option, and goes for an upgrade at the trade deadline.
Individual performances in training camp will likely influence the Oilers' decision here. If Regula or Leppanen have good showings in camp, that could be bad news for Stecher or Emberson.
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