Edmonton Oilers Trade Target States He'll Refuse to Play in Canada

With their current lineup of defensemen, most pundits and the fanbase feel it needs to be stronger or deeper to carry the Oilers through the playoffs.
Numerous names have come up: Erik Karlsson, Shane Gostisbehere, Joel Edmundson and Jakob Chychrun.

Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Vladislav Gavrinkov was another name floating around. He has clarified that he does not want to sign an extension in Canada.

The six foot three 221 pound defenseman has played 52 games for the Blue Jackets. He has scored three goals with seven assists for 10 points and is a - 8.

His defensive numbers do not do him justice, as he's played on a poor defensive team. The Blue Jackets drafted the 27-year-old in the 2015 draft in the sixth round, 159th choice overall.

If this is the case, the Oilers will need to scratch him off the list and continue their search to improve their defence on the left side.