The Edmonton Oilers are focusing on improving their roster as the March 6 NHL trade deadline approaches. Their main objective is to acquire a skilled top-nine forward. However, general manager Stan Bowman may also consider strengthening the team’s defensive lineup.
Morgan Rielly Rumors Surrounding the Oilers
Recent speculation has emerged regarding the potential trade of Morgan Rielly, a notable defenseman from the Toronto Maple Leafs. Rielly has been connected to various teams, including Dallas, Boston, and Detroit, with the Edmonton Oilers having a 30 percent likelihood as a destination.
Details About Morgan Rielly
- Age: 31 years old
- Contract: Eight years, $60 million (signed in 2021)
- Performance: 30 points (6 goals, 24 assists) in 50 games this season
Despite the rumors, trading Rielly to the Oilers presents significant challenges. The team is currently near the salary cap, making it difficult to absorb Rielly’s $7.5 million salary. A potential one-for-one swap involving Darnell Nurse has been proposed, but this scenario is highly unlikely given their respective no-movement clauses.
Assessing the Feasibility of the Trade
Rielly’s ongoing defensive issues further complicate matters. His struggles have raised questions about his fit within the Oilers’ system. Instead of pursuing Rielly, it seems more probable that Bowman would opt for a less expensive and more reliable defensive option.
The Trade Deadline Outlook
If Toronto’s GM, Brad Treliving, is serious about moving Rielly, he must find a team capable of accommodating his contract. Additionally, Rielly would need to agree to the trade, which may prove to be a tough challenge. Given these hurdles, a trade involving Rielly appears more likely to occur in the offseason rather than during the current season.
