Main Photo: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports
The rumours continue to swirl as the trade deadline is entering the home stretch. Buyers are gathering their material to submit the transaction. The Nashville Predators remain at the forefront as they are on a fire sale. On top of the Tanner Jeannot trade, a Mattias Ekholm trade is on the horizon. An Edmonton Oilers trade very well could happen.
Mattias Ekholm Could Be On The Move in Edmonton Oilers Trade
And, among the other options, I’m told the Oilers and Canadiens continue to discuss a trade involving Joel Edmundson. https://t.co/rfvBGKeYo4
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) February 27, 2023
Rumour: Darren Dreger states that the Edmonton Oilers are in discussion for Mattias Ekholm
All the buzz is surrounding the historic season that Connor McDavid is having. Rightfully so it is one of the best things hockey fans everywhere get to witness. However, that should not overshadow how bad the Oilers are defensively. Sure the bottom six could use some work, but the blue line is an absolute must. A Mattias Ekholm trade fits the bill and fits a need. It is also reported that the Oilers are engaged with the Montreal Canadiens for defensemen Joel Edmundson.
How This Impacts The Oilers
This isn’t Erik Karlsson which is a pipeline dream given the season he is having, but Ekholm is a good talent. It is no secret the Oilers’ weakest link is the blue line and Jack Campbell‘s play in goal does not help. From a possession standpoint, the blue line is playing borderline average. The xGF% among them is solid, but given how dynamite the team is offensively that’s expected.
An Edmonton Oilers trade makes sense. Ekholm fits in perfectly. He has the best possession numbers among the Predators blue line (52.60) and generates chances with an xGF% of 54.68%. He would fit the team well and is solid defensively in his own end. Overall, the unit is not a bad group, but it is evident that reinforcements are needed. Ekholm has been rumoured to be on the move before and may finally get his chance. He is also not a rental and is locked up until 2025-26.
