Reports surfaced yesterday that the Oilers are engaging in imminent meetings with Saad to discuss a contract, but other teams are reportedly entering the discussion.
Brandon Saad was naturally connected to the Edmonton Oilers due to his long history with GM Stan Bowman from their time with the Chicago Blackhawks. In addition, the Oilers have been reported to be targeting a depth forward addition like Saad.
Oilers insider Bob Stauffer has reported Brandon Saad has interest in signing with Edmonton as well. However, there is a number of other teams showing interest too.
According to a new article from Jonas Siegel of the Athletic, the Toronto Maple Leafs are one team that may be targeting Saad - they also have a personal connection with his former coach Craig Berube.
The Oilers have a better pitch to Saad for the chance to win a Stanley Cup than the Leafs, but the Leafs perhaps have more flexibility in their lineup to give him a look in their top six and increase his value next year.
The Oilers wings are stacked with more established talent, with Evander Kane coming back as well. It's hard to imagine Saad would push out Hyman, Nuge, or even Podkolzin and Arvidsson out of the top 6.
Although adding Saad may be a valuable add, the Oilers may not have the space in the lineup to give him the best situation for personal success. That may be a factor that pushes Saad to sign elsewhere.
POLL | ||
JANVIER 30 | 160 ANSWERS Oilers could lose out to Canadian rival team on signing free agent Brandon Saad Who do you think will sign Brandon Saad? | ||
Edmonton Oilers | 60 | 37.5 % |
Toronto Maple Leafs | 32 | 20 % |
Other | 68 | 42.5 % |
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