The Edmonton Oilers’ pursuit of defensive reinforcements has taken an interesting turn. With Cam Fowler now off the market, having been traded to the St. Louis Blues, the Oilers’ attention seems to have shifted towards Detroit Red Wings defenseman Ben Chiarot.
This rumor mill started churning when David Staples of The Edmonton Journal recently suggested that Oilers General Manager Stan Bowman should seriously consider pursuing Chiarot. And frankly, I can see why. Chiarot brings a physical presence and a veteran savvy that the Oilers blue line could desperately use. He’s a big body who isn’t afraid to throw his weight around and clear the crease, something Edmonton has lacked consistently.
Ben Chiarot’s Contract: A Hurdle to Overcome
Unlike some other trade targets, Chiarot wouldn’t be a mere rental. He’s signed through the 2025-26 season with a $4.75 million cap hit. This presents a significant challenge for the Oilers, who are already navigating a tight salary cap situation.
As of today, they have roughly $3.5 million in projected NHL trade deadline cap space. To make a Chiarot deal work, Bowman will need to get creative. He’ll either have to shed some salary by moving out another contract or convince Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman to retain some of Chiarot’s salary.
Is Chiarot the Right Fit for the Edmonton Oilers?
While Chiarot’s defensive grit is undeniable, there are some concerns about whether he’s the ideal fit for Edmonton. He’s not known for his offensive production, and his possession metrics haven’t been stellar in recent years. However, his playoff experience and leadership qualities could be invaluable for a team looking to make a deep Stanley Cup run.
What Will Bowman Do?
It’s no secret that the Oilers are looking to bolster their blue line for the stretch drive. Chiarot might not be the flashiest name on the trade market, but he could be a solid addition if the Oilers can make the numbers work.
Knowing Bowman’s penchant for making shrewd moves, I wouldn’t be surprised to see him pull off a deal that brings Chiarot to Oil Country. But it will undoubtedly require some financial maneuvering and potentially parting ways with a player or prospect they’d prefer to keep.
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