Although the Oilers have underachieved considerably this season, don’t expect big changes between now and the season. Speaking with Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic (subscription required), GM Peter Chiarelli stated that fans shouldn’t be expecting a major trade anytime soon:
“Part of what we’re striving for here is stability and continuity and sticking to a strong plan. We’re not going to stray from that. It doesn’t mean we’re not going to make a trade here and there. But a blockbuster, blow-it-up (trade)? No.’’
Many have been vocal for big changes in Edmonton this season either on the ice and/or behind the bench; Chiarelli also reiterated his support for head coach Todd McLellan. While it still seems likely that they will move some of their pending free agents (winger Patrick Maroon and center Mark Letestu are top candidates), there may not be anything more substantial than that before the offseason.
Elsewhere in the Pacific:
- The Canucks are on the lookout for a bottom-six power forward, reports Postmedia’s Ben Kuzma. In particular, they’re looking to replace winger Derek Dorsett, who got off to a strong start to his season before being forced to retire with lingering neck issues. Vancouver doesn’t appear to have an internal replacement so they will likely have to turn to free agency to try to find someone that fits the bill although finding one that had the offensive upside that Dorsett showed at times will be difficult.
- While it was widely expected over the summer that Golden Knights winger James Neal would be moved by the trade deadline, his agent Pat Morris told Ed Graney of the Las Vegas Review-Journal that he would be shocked if his client is in another uniform after February 26th. Vegas has shocked many by sitting atop the Western Conference standings at the All-Star break which has likely changed their original plans. Morris also reiterated that Neal would entertain signing a contract extension to stay with the expansion franchise though neither he nor GM George McPhee would indicate if talks are currently ongoing.
Captain Obvious statement forthcoming …. Vegas is the best expansion franchise in the history of sports
Agreed, don’t expect the same treatment for any future NHL expansion teams.
Seattle’s entry fee is how much more than Vegas had to pay? They better get the same treatment haha, especially if they entered the Central.
Bettman just confirmed not too long ago that if/when Seattle gets a team, they’ll get the exact same treatment and available pool of players that Vegas got.
The Canucks should call up Archibald from Utica. He’s a gritty power forward who can put the puck in the net on occasion. Only problem is his history of injuries