As the offseason progresses for the Edmonton Oilers, it is evident that the team is focusing on improving their defense core. According to a report by David Pagnotta on Hello Hockey, the Oilers are actively looking to make moves to upgrade their blue line. Trade rumors involving Brett Kulak and Cody Ceci have been circulating, with the team targeting a potential acquisition of a #4-5 defender.
Currently, the Oilers’ defensive lineup includes Mattias Ekholm and Evan Bouchard, Darnell Nurse and Philip Broberg, as well as Kulak and Ceci on the third pair. Josh Brown and Troy Stecher fill out the seventh and eighth positions. However, this setup poses a financial challenge, particularly with Nurse’s large contract on the second pair. With $6 million tied up in the third pairing, the team may look to bring in a more cost-effective player who can handle increased minutes if needed.
Kulak, with two years left on his contract at $2.75 million, has shown his ability to step up in crucial moments, while Ceci, in the final year of his $3.25 million deal, has proven valuable on the penalty kill. The Oilers are currently over the salary cap by about $365K and need to secure extensions for restricted free agents.
The team faces a decision on whether to address their defensive needs now or wait until the trade deadline for a big move. Making minor roster adjustments to get under the cap in the short term could allow for a bigger defensive upgrade closer to the deadline. Acting GM Jeff Jackson has already made significant moves, and if an opportunity arises, he should feel confident to make a move.
