Edmonton Oilers should avoid trading this prospect at all costs
The Edmonton Oilers are currently on the hunt for a top-four defenceman, but general manager should avoid trading top prospect Beau Akey at all costs.
The holiday season is in full swing, and you know what that mean -- World Juniors.
The Edmonton Oilers only have one prospect representing the franchise during the tournament, and defenceman Beau Akey will be looking to make Oil Country proud.
According to the Hockey Writers, He was the Oilers' second-round pick (56th overall) in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, and currently plays for the Barrie Colts in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). The Waterloo, Ontario native has played 166 games in the OHL, spanning four seasons, and has recorded 24 goals, and 91 points, including 47 points in 66 games during his draft year.
However, the 19-year-old prospect only played 14 games last season due to a season-ending shoulder surgery. But, he's fully recovered, and has recorded 19 points in 25 games so far this season. As a result of his strong start, he's been chosen to represent Canada at the World Junior Championship this holiday season.
Stan Bowman should avoid trading Beau Akey for top-four defenceman
It's no secret that the Edmonton Oilers are looking for a top-4 defenceman to bolster their back-end leading up to the playoffs.
While this sentiment is very much real, the Edmonton Oilers currently have one of the weakest prospect pools in the league, and trading a prospect like Beau Akey would only deplete their future depth even further.
In addition to that, Beau Akey's skillsets are a rare commodity in today's NHL.
When it comes to potential trade chips, Sam O'Reilly appears to be the more logical choice, as his skill sets might be easier to replace compared to Beau Akey.
Nonetheless, this decision still puts GM Stan Bowman and a tough spot.
