Oilers finalizing trade to acquire San Jose Sharks defenceman

The Oilers were reportedly looking for another defenceman to solidify their group before the trade deadline, and Walman is a promising addition who can play both sides.

According to several NHL insiders including David Pagnotta of the Fourth Period, the Oilers are the most aggressive team in the mix pushing to finalizing a deal for Walman.

NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman confirmed the talks between San Jose and Edmonton, suggesting the deal is very close to being complete.

According to an additional report from Pagnotta, the return is expected to include a first round draft pick.

Jake Walman is certainly an interesting addition for the Oilers. The 25 year old left shot defenceman can play both sides of the ice, and is under contract for this season and next at $3.4M.

He's played 252 career NHL games with the Blues, Red Wings, and Sharks, developing into an under the radar promising player. In 23 games last season, the defenceman scored an impressive 12 goals. This season he's set a career high of 32 points in 50 games.

Walman has averaged well over 20 minutes a night, logging tough minutes for the Sharks against the opponent's top competition. By advanced metrics, Walman has been a very effective player - leading some fans to wonder if this trade will have an Ekholm like impact.

If the Oilers can finalize this deal, they'll be acquiring an under the radar top 4 defenceman who will be part of their team for the next two seasons.

*UPDATE :
Edmonton Oilers have one more move coming after Jake Walman trade, per insiders