Oilers may consider trading away NHL defender this season with emergence of new talent
Photo credit: Edmonton Oilers Raw
The Edmonton Oilers have a new emerging talent in Atro Leppanen, and it could cause the team to make a move with their defence later this season.
Leppanen has been identified as a standout player in his first 2 preseason games, and is being given another opportunity in tonight's veteran-heavy lineup. He could make the jump to the NHL, but he's behind 3 quality defenders.
Atro Leppanen blocked from making Oilers roster by veteran defenders
The fact of the matter is regardless of how well he plays, Leppanen will have a difficult time making the Oilers roster. With Mathias Ekholm, Darnell Nurse, Jake Walman, and Brett Kulak as left handed defenceman, Leppanen is a hard fit.
However, Oilers insider Bob Stauffer has previously hinted that Brett Kulak may depart team as a free agent in the offseason. This could open a spot for Leppanen on the 3rd pair.
Kulak will probably have a decision to make. Does he go to market after his performance the past couple of years in the playoffs, or does he stay here?
- Bob Stauffer
- Bob Stauffer
If the Oilers decide that Leppanen is ready for the NHL now, they could Kulak in the final year of his contract - probably for a decent return too. Not only that, but the Oilers would clear up additional salary space to address other areas of need on the roster.
Now 26 year old, Leppanen is only signed to a one year contract. If the Oilers don't give him a chance in the NHL this season, he'd be very likely to leave the team in free agency, or return to Europe.
The Oilers organization clearly believes in the player to sign him, but now they have a big decision to make.
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