Following a poor start to the season and a coaching change, the Edmonton Oilers have rebounded impressively and, as they approach the trade deadline as buyers with limited cap space, are looking to bolster their lineup, potentially targeting big names like Jake Guentzel, while navigating salary cap constraints and considering moving players such as Cody Ceci and Jack Campbell.
All-Star break’s done and dusted. Now, the trade deadline’s staring us down, just a few weeks out. So, where’s each team at? What moves are on their to-do list? Let’s dive into the Edmonton Oilers’ situation.
They’ve had a rocky start. Again. This season kicked off so rough, they ended up sacking head coach Jay Woodcroft after just 13 games. Ouch.
But hey, things took a turn. Since stumbling to a 3-9-1 start, the Oilers, under Kris Knoblauch, have been on fire. We’re talking a 27-7 record, including an almost historic 17-game winning streak. Impressive, right?
Now, they’re back in the game. Looking every bit the Stanley Cup contender they’re known to be. And yep, they’re eyeing some additions as the trade deadline approaches.
Rumor has it, they’re after Jake Guentzel from the Penguins. Plus, they’re likely scouting other big names. But, there’s a catch. Their cap space? Not looking too hot.
With just $2.374M to play with on deadline day, and the futures of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl up in the air, they’re in a tight spot. They’ll need some serious creativity to beef up their lineup.
As for their deadline status? They’re buyers. But with limited cap space and a need to keep their core intact, it’s gonna be a juggling act.
They’ve got their draft picks lined up for the next couple of years. That’s something. But when it comes to trade chips, they’re not keen on shaking up their NHL roster too much.
Still, there’s chatter about wanting to offload Cody Ceci and his $3.25M cap hit. And Jack Campbell’s situation in the AHL, with his $5M cap hit, is another story. Moving either could help, but it won’t be easy or cheap.
So, that’s the scoop on the Oilers as the trade deadline looms. They’ve got their work cut out for them, but if anyone can turn a tight spot into a win, it’s this crew. Let’s see how it all unfolds.
