Insider reveals the wish-list of Stan Bowman as the trade deadline is approaching
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According to Oilers insider Jason Gregor of The Jason Gregor Show, Edmonton Oilers GM Stan Bowman will be targeting a few areas ahead of the NHL trade deadline.
Despite strong performances keeping them at the top of the Pacific Division, Gregor believes the Oilers are still looking to fine-tune their roster for a deep playoff run.
While analysts around the league believed Stan Bowman was planning a blockbuster trade, recent reports suggest he will instead focus on making low-key, minor additions
Stan Bowman highlights the need for a speedy and skilled winger that can brings a physical side to the offence, in addition to a left hand shot defenceman.
»Our top three lefties have been excellent between Ekholm, Kulak and Nurse. But I think underneath that, if one of them were to get injured, then yeah, we don't have that experienced depth on the left side. So that's one area to look at.
- Stan Bowman
- Stan Bowman
The Oilers are often criticized for being one of the older teams in the league and they are looking to inject some youth and speed into their lineup.
Names like Trent Frederic of the Boston Bruins have been seen as potential fits and is offering both grit and offensive skills.
"That's something we're evaluating with our coaches. Whether it's a winger or a center, it's going to be dependent on where we think we want to use Nuge."
-Stan Bowman
-Stan Bowman
On the defensive end, while the recent acquisition of John Klingberg has been positively received, the team is still evaluating his role and Gregor suggests the Oilers will likely pursue a depth defenseman to help their blue line at a lower cost.
Bowman has already shown creativity in his roster moves with the claiming of Kasperi Kapanen off waivers from the St. Louis Blues and signing Klingberg earlier in the season.
His ability to think outside the box could lead to unexpected additions as the deadline approaches.
While major moves may wait until closer to the deadline, depth additions seem inevitable as Edmonton is getting ready for a Stanley Cup run.
If John Klingberg keeps performing up to standard, the Oilers best path forward may just be adds around the edges of the team.
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