Edmonton Oilers seek impactful defencemen to strengthen playoff contention

In the face of mounting pressure to perform this season, the Edmonton Oilers are actively exploring potential trades to bolster their defense. General Manager Stan Bowman is particularly focused on acquiring defencemen who can provide strong contributions beyond the current season, as the franchise looks to elevate its performance and make a serious push for the Stanley Cup. Among the primary targets is Henri Jokiharju of the Buffalo Sabres, who at 25 has a solid track record in the NHL with over 350 games played. He is a right-handed blueliner currently slated to become an unrestricted free agent after this season. The Oilers recognize the necessity of re-signing Jokiharju upon acquisition, considering his skill set as an impressive skater and effective puck mover. He could potentially fit well within the team's existing defensive structure alongside players like Darnell Nurse or Mattias Ekholm, filling gaps in both the second and top defensive pairings. Another notable target includes J.J. Moser, who now plays for the Tampa Bay Lightning. At just 24 years old, Moser has demonstrated versatility and competence on the ice, contributing positively against higher-caliber competition throughout his career, which includes a productive stint with the Arizona Coyotes. He is under contract for this season and next, making him an appealing target for Edmonton. Moser's performance has been enhanced by his time with a skilled player like Victor Hedman, but with a strong defenseman like Ekholm on the Oilers, he could also see a significant boost in his performance metrics. The urgency for Boston to secure reliable defensive help is underscored by their willingness to trade valuable assets, such as a first-round pick or high-profile prospects like Savoie or O'Reilly, to meet these needs. However, they face challenges as the market for quality defensemen remains restricted and may demand hefty prices. While Edmonton’s recent history of acquisitions, like the earlier deal for Ekholm, signifies that they can successfully land solid players, they must navigate potential aspirations of rival teams also aiming to harden their defensive lines as the trade deadline approaches. As the Oilers assess their roster in search of improvement, all eyes are on Bowman's strategy to fortify a crucial underpinning of the team, ensuring they do not just compete but contend seriously for the title.