NHL Rumors: Oilers, Sabres, Maple Leafs and Yakupov

Could Jason Demers be a fit with the Edmonton Oilers?
On the Edmonton Oilers …

David Staples of the Edmonton Jouranl: Elliotte Friedman was on CHED 630 talking with host Bob Stauffer, and wondered if the Oilers would do a Jordan Eberle for Jason Demers deal? Demers visited the Oilers last offseason when he was a free agent.

“There was a time it looked like he was going there (to Edmonton),” Friedman said.

“I think Demers is a guy who could be available.”

notes that this was a discussion/speculation and not a trade rumor.

Jim Matheson: Not sure why the Oilers would want Demers at $4.5 million for another four years. They have top pair in Adam Larsson and Oscar Klefbom who make $4.1 million each.

Jim Matheson: With Andrej Sekera out for six to nine months, the Oilers really need to re-sign Kris Russell. If he’s looking for more than three years and $4 million per season, could be a non-starter.

On the Buffalo Sabres …

Aivis Kalnins: The Sabres and Viktor Antipin have talked recently and nothing has changed. He is still expected to sign with the Sabres.

Aivis Kalnins: New GM Jason Botterill has reached out to Zemgus Girgensons via a text message. There have been no contract discussion yet.

On the Toronto Maple Leafs and Nail Yakupov

Luke Fox of Sportsnet: Maple Leafs coach Mike Babcock was at the Predators-Ducks game last week. The Ducks would be a perfect trade partner for the Maple Leafs who could use a right-handed top-four defenseman.

Sami Vatanen would be of interest at $4.875 million for another three years. Cheaper and less experienced options would be Brandon Montour and Josh Manson.

Another theory/hunch could be Mike Fisher as it’s doubtful that Brian Boyle returns.

Nail Yakupov is a RFA on July 1st and it’s very unlikely the Blues qualify him. Vegas or another team that is looking offense could be interested on a short-term, low money contract – like the LA Kings. Yakopov said he doesn’t want to return to the KHL.

 

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