The Edmonton Oilers are in win-now mode. Connor McDavid is playing at an MVP level, Leon Draisaitl remains a dominant force, and the team is poised for a deep playoff run. But one question lingers: can their defense handle the pressure of a Stanley Cup chase?
Oilers Rumors: Mike Matheson Trade a Perfect Fit?
Allan Mitchell of The Athletic recently highlighted the Oilers’ need for a left-shot defenseman capable of facing top competition. He believes Mike Matheson of the Montreal Canadiens fits the bill perfectly. Matheson, a smooth-skating, puck-moving defenseman, has another year left on his contract at a reasonable $4.875 million cap hit. He’s exactly the kind of player who could elevate the Oilers’ blue line.
However, prying Matheson away from Montreal won’t be easy. The Canadiens are thin on the back end and see Matheson as a veteran mentor for their young core. While they might be willing to part with veteran David Savard, he’s a right-shot defenseman, not what the Oilers need.
This is where Oilers General Manager Stan Bowman needs to get creative. He has a history of making bold moves at the NHL trade deadline, and acquiring Matheson would certainly qualify. The Oilers have a wealth of prospects and draft picks they could dangle as trade bait. A package including a young player like Matthew Savoie and a high draft pick might be enough to entice Montreal.
But there are other factors to consider. Can the Oilers afford Matheson’s cap hit without shedding salary elsewhere? And are there other left-shot defensemen on Bowman’s radar? Bowen Byram’s name has been swirling in the rumor mill for months. Could he be a more realistic target?
The coming weeks will be interesting as the Oilers explore their options. One thing is certain: Stan Bowman is leaving no stone unturned in his quest to bring the Stanley Cup back to Edmonton.
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Overpaid J. Skinner, and Ryan could be traded draft picks and/or prospects before trade deadline.
As for Kane…wait and see.
Possibility traded in the summer for prospects, or draft picks
Oilers need to get younger
Matheson would be short-term solution.
Savoie, Stetcher, high draft pick for B. Byram and Malenstyn.