Photo credit: James Guillory – USA TODAY Sports
Reports indicate that Edmonton is narrowing its list of team with whom to trade, and all are in the Atlantic Division.
Oilers look to Atlantic for possible goalie upgrade
One obvious trend in the NHL this season has been how close teams are in each division between first and last. The gap has narrowed considerably, and the Atlantic is no exception.
Only 6-points separate the 1st-place Red Wings and last-place Leafs; in mix are the three teams Edmonton is looking at with whom to trade, each with different needs.
Bruins and Habs are making a push for a playoff spot and will need help, while Buffalo are likely to be sellers and will be seeking draft picks and prospects.
Where the Oilers are concerned, Skinner’s and Pickard’s weaknesses have been exposed this year, and Wednesday’s 7-4 loss to the Washington Capitals showed just how much.
Skinner has a .758 high-danger save percentage at 5v5, 4th-worst in the NHL among goalies. Calvin Pickard has been even worse at .667, the lowest in the league.
Skinner currently has 0.2 Goals Saved Above Expected, which ranks 24th in the NHL among goalies. Though the last two games have shown positive results, all in all the theme has not changed in goal for the Oilers.
So, who is management looking at to bring to over to Oil country for these Eastern Conference clubs?
Past reports confirmed Edmonton has had an eye on Ukko-Pekka Luukonen from the Sabres. He has proven to be capable and is likely looking to leave Buffalo for a fresh start, though he isn’t a sure-fire starter the Oilers need necessarily. More of a tandem guy right now.
There is no chance Boston will trade Jeremy Swayman this year, so expect Joonas Korspisalo to be a possible target for Edmonton.Finally, Montreal is making a post-season push, with Jakub Dobes playing well. They could expose Sam Montembault.
More will be available as the 30-game mark approaches.
Previously on Oilers Daily