Edmonton Oilers interview at draft catches attention of NHL for a major trade
Photo credit: Seattle Thunderbirds
The Edmonton Oilers have reportedly engaged in a rare draft interview with a top 10 projected draft pick, prompting belief they could make a trade into the first round.
The Oilers had a similar strategy last year where they traded into the first round to select Sam O'Reilly, who's shot up their prospect rankings since. Maybe they've identified another sleeper pick to grab.
Edmonton Oilers interview top 10 draft pick Radim Mrtka, despite having no first round pick
According to Cam Robinson of Elite Prospects, top prospect Radim Mrtka revealed he was interviewed most by the Edmonton Oilers and Utah Mammoth.
The Oilers don't have a draft pick until 83rd overall, so they'd be completely wasting their time interviewing Mrtka - unless they planned on trading into the first round to draft him.
Mrtka is currently ranked as the 6th best North American player entering the draft by NHL Central Scouting, and is currently projected to go around 10th overall in the first round.
The 18 year old is a 6'6 Czech right shot defenceman who came to North America to play last season with the WHL's Seattle Thunderbirds.
He's got the physical tools to dominate in the NHL, and had an impressive offensive season scoring 35 points in 43 games, which was third in rookie scoring for defenceman.
According to NHL insider Darren Dreger, the Penguins are looking to trade one of their first round picks in the range to draft Mrtka - that could be the trade partner for Edmonton.
The Oilers would have to give up a significant asset to move up into the top 10 of the draft, but if they strongly believe they could acquire a top young defender who's close to helping the team win now - it would be a bold move with a high payoff.
| POLL | ||
JUIN 26 | 975 ANSWERS Edmonton Oilers interview at draft catches attention of NHL for a major trade Do you think the Oilers should trade up into the first round of the NHL draft? | ||
| Yes | 473 | 48.5 % |
| No | 502 | 51.5 % |
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