TRADE DEAL :Edmonton Oilers defence trade deadline……………

TRADE DEAL :Edmonton Oilers defence trade deadline……………

Ken Holland, the general manager of the Edmonton Oilers, may possibly put the adage “the best trades are the ones you don’t make” to the test this week.

Though it’s uncertain, it seems like Philip Broberg has an opportunity to stick with the team, develop with them, and become a successful top-four NHL defenseman in the future.
The Oilers’ intentions to strengthen their defense were undermined by the Calgary Flames’ trade of Chris Tanev last week.

According to information that has been made public, Edmonton management’s Plan A included trading for Tanev in exchange for Cody Ceci and a first-round pick, thus improving a vital position without adversely affecting the cap.

Though it was a perfectly good answer, the Flames had other plans.

 

Although the organization has been linked to Sean Walker and the Philadelphia Flyers recently, Holland might feel that the skill available at the deadline is insufficient now that Tanev is gone.

Ceci might still be the best choice for the team’s second partnering spot. That would imply a smaller defense acquisition (ranked sixth on the depth list).

It seems more and more likely that the Oilers will make a significant acquisition at the deadline. Both the right flank and the center are full with talent. Before Friday afternoon, at least one noteworthy addition should arrive in Edmonton.

Coming full circle to the defense, what can management accomplish with scant funds and minimal leeway?

A No. 7 defenseman seems to be the most likely addition right now.

One advantage of a cheap rental is that Broberg, the team’s best-in-waiting defender, is probably going to stay on.

Broberg might be the most valuable long-term roster addition Holland can make at the deadline, given his potential future.