Edmonton Oilers Most Wanted Prospects
Kurt Leavins of the Edmonton Journal: What if the Edmonton Oilers become buyers at the trade deadline? There are ten prospects that teams could have their eyes on in any transaction.
A few of the more intriguing options include Caleb Jones, Jesse Puljujarvi, and Evan Bouchard. Jones possesses the ability to become a top-4 defenseman with some speed and playmaking ability. Once, his defensive skills catch up then look out.
Puljujarvi drafted fourth overall just three years ago has not developed like most expected. Still, the possibility exists a general manager takes a chance on him.
Lastly, Evan Bouchard becomes the big piece in any deal. His all-around game will only improve. Overall foot speed needs work but that is it. He shoots hard, plays harder, and can provide instant offense.
Jim Matheson: Edmonton has a plethora of prospects on defense which could be dangled for a rental along with their second-round pick. Jones, Bouchard, Ethan Bear, and William Lagesson, among others, may be available.
The Andrej Sekera Decision and more…
Kurt Leavins of the Edmonton Journal: The Sekera decision looms over the Edmonton Oilers. Maybe, Edmonton gets that two-game reprieve but what if they do not?
That forces the Oilers’ hand into making a different set of moves. In the AHL, Sekera uses his intelligence to make up for blinding speed. When the defenseman plays in the NHL, that advantage will be gone. Hopefully, Sekera learned to adapt well during his rehab stint with Bakersfield.
Keith Gretzky answers the questions for the Edmonton Oilers
Daniel Nugent-Bowman of The Athetlic: Gretzky faces difficult decisions. First up, is Andrej Sekera. When he is activated, what will that mean for the rest of the roster? A trade could be executed to alleviate any cap issues. Keith Gretzky opines that the Sekera injury hurt the Edmonton Oilers more than any other problem.
Caleb Jones looked solid when it came to decision making with the puck. His offense may not have been ideal but Jones is so young.
Jesse Puljujarvi again is up and down with confidence. Consistency is a piece of his game no one has really tapped.
Bakersfield (AHL) is on a 12-game winning streak and part of the reason is the Edmonton prospects. Gretzky believes they are the key to any future.