Ken Holland, GM of the Edmonton Oilers answers more questions
Daniel Nugent-Bowman of The Athletic (Q&A): Again, what constitutes a successful offseason for the Edmonton Oilers? It depends on who one asks. Ken Holland remaking the front office and getting ready for the draft has been a challenge. Yet, there is so much more still to do.
A few constructs were of note. Connor McDavid appears fine. Dave Tippett coaches the team and makes decisions (Leon Draisaitl and McDavid). Finally, buyouts are still a possibility.
Jesse Puljujarvi remains a big question. Will he still be an Oiler? Holland quipped with a simple, “it’s been a tough year for him”. No one knows what will happen there.
Will Darnell Nurse be extended? Holland wants to wait as long as he can. Honestly, he has to get to know the team.
Will Keith Gretzky stay? Yes, he will be the general manager of Bakersfield (AHL). Also, the chief scouts expect to run the draft so best player available is a likely scenario often.
The offseason is a win if there is a noticeable improvement after 40 games compared to last season. Holland mentioned trading down a few times to acquire more picks as those are always good.
Trading for Loui Eriksson?
Allan Mitchell of The Athletic: Loui Eriksson still plays solid defensively — especially on the penalty kill. His numbers improved all three seasons. Ken Holland said fixing the penalty kill was a major priority. If Vancouver were to take on Milan Lucic, Holland couldn’t say no here. Holland treading carefully is important as a deal is not a must at this time.
Jonathan Willis: Edmonton moving for Eriksson would save $6 million in long-term cap space. Having a depth forward who can play on the penalty kill does not hurt. Ken Holland likes the idea of bringing in a player that can play some defense and contribute a bit offensively.
Kristian Nakyva being pursued by Edmonton
Bruce McCurdy of the Edmonton Journal: Kristian Nakyva sounds like a depth option for the Edmonton Oilers. Considering their contract situation with defensemen, they may just be opening up more competition come September. After that, speculation is anyone’s guess. Another puck moving blueliner cannot hurt considering it was a weak point last season.