Wayne Gretzky has strange pick for Oilers X-Factor in Stanley Cup Final
Photo credit: USA Today Sports
The Edmonton Oilers' main trade deadline acquisition was for Trent Frederic from the Boston Bruins, and now Wayne Gretzky is calling on him to be an X-Factor in the final.
Frederic was in consideration to be a healthy scratch earlier in the playoffs, as he's consistently played the least amount of ice time on forward. Against the Panthers though, could be his time to step up.
Wayne Gretzky calls on Trent Frederic to start making impact in series against Florida Panthers
In a new interview today with Bob Stauffer of OilersNOW, Wayne Gretzky called on Trent Frederic specifically as a physical player who will be able to respond to the Panthers' antics - and someone who could finally step up to make his impact.
Edmonton has more depth this year. I think Frederic and Kane could be a big difference. The physical presence they bring to this series is going to be a benefit to Edmonton, and it's not secret Draisaitl and McDavid are gonna lead the way and do their thing. But I think they got more help this year, and they're just a better team.
- Wayne Gretzky
- Wayne Gretzky
It's interesting to hear Wayne call on Frederic specifically, as he hasn't lived up to the expectations since the trade deadline - but he has a chance to fully redeem himself now.
Trent Frederic needs to make good on Oilers investment in Cup Final
Frederic came to the Oilers struggling with injury, and wasn't able to make his full debut with the team until the playoffs. He's still clearly not healthy, but if he can bring any sort of energy, intimidation, and pest energy into the bottom six against Florida, it could make a difference.
Unfortunately, the Oilers really gave up a lot to acquire the pending UFA Trent Frederic at double salary retention. The Oilers sent out multiple draft picks, Shane Lachance, and Max Wanner.
Frederic only has 1 goals and 4 points in the playoffs this season, mostly playing 4th like minutes. The trade isn't looking like a win for the Oilers so far, but if he can elevate his game and even have one moment to contribute to a win, it'll make the deal fully worth it.
| POLL | ||
JUIN 5 | 659 ANSWERS Wayne Gretzky has strange pick for Oilers X-Factor in Stanley Cup Final Do you think Trent Frederic will raise his game for the Final? | ||
| Yes, he'll be better | 471 | 71.5 % |
| He's already been good | 97 | 14.7 % |
| No, he can't | 91 | 13.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
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