On the Edmonton Oilers
Mark Spector of Sportsnet: Edmonton is a buyer. Repeat and say it one more time. After years of an extended rebuild, the Oilers are firmly in a playoff spot. While they may not contend just yet, Edmonton does have a need or two that could boost their chances via the trade deadline.
hints that the Oilers need a number one defenseman and power play quarterback in the mold of Kevin Shattenkirk. Furthermore, Edmonton can dangle picks including a first round pick. The team can even move a prospect or two. Do not be surprised if they go after a third line checking center as well. It is not automatic who that may be. Brian Boyle is just a rumor at this time.
On the Calgary Flames …
Mark Spector of Sportsnet: Calgary is in the position of being not much of a seller but not much of a buyer either. Small upgrades are expected and Dennis Wideman may be traded.
includes Calgary’s needs and the most glaring are a defensive upgrade first. Then, a possible third line center boost could be helpful. Two players that could fit that bill are Michael Stone (from Arizona) and Carl Soderberg (from Colorado). The problem is these are lateral moves. Soderberg also carries a hefty price tag ($4.75 million for three years). Salary retention would be a must.
On Scott Darling …
Jared Clinton of The Hockey News: Free agents are looked at this time of year. This is in case they survive the trade deadline. There are a few goalies that may suffice besides Ben Bishop.
explores the class and the stumbles of several of these goalies creates a buyer beware scenario. The intriguing piece may just be Scott Darling. Darling has not had that stumble the others have had. The issues of age, health, and regression are not a concern with him. His price is expected to be far cheaper. Term would not be outrageous. That is a rarity these days in the NHL.