In the midst of the NHL trade chatter, the Edmonton Oilers are orchestrating a tactical maneuver to fortify their blueline, with whispers suggesting a keen interest in multiple Flames’ defensive assets. As the trade deadline countdown begins, the Oilers are most likely eyeing a strategic move that could redefine their playoff prospects.
Flames’ Trio in Oilers’ Crosshairs
There’s some serious buzz in the air, and it’s all about the Oilers eyeing Flames defensemen—Nikita Zadorov, Chris Tanev, and Noah Hanifin.
Rumor has it, and you know I love a good rumor, the Oilers are zeroing in on one of these blue-line maestros that could set the stage for a deep playoff run.
Nikita Zadorov’s Appeal
We’re diving into the Oilers’ quest for defensive power, and right now, all signs point to Nikita Zadorov as the man in their crosshairs. Now, why Zadorov? It’s more than just the ticking clock on those expiring contracts. Envision this dude as a budget version of Dustin Byfuglien, throwing his weight around like a wrecking ball on skates. This big fella glides on the ice like a damn ballerina, has a cannon of a shot, and the kicker? He’s a switch-hitter, playing both sides with ease.
The thing I love the most about this player is that he makes everybody on the other team pay a little bit more attention when he’s on the ice and at the moment the Oilers do not have one of these players. Could you imagine him and 6’7″ Vincent Desharnais pairing up? Remember the Twin Towers, Jeff Beukeboom and Steve Smith? Nobody’s going hear the front of the net if Zadorov and Desharnais are there and that’d give Edmonton’s netminders a helluva lot more time to see the shots coming in.
But here’s the plot twist: no pesky NTC. That’s like adding a shot of adrenaline to this trade drama. The Oilers are feeling the heat with their cap situation, and without that safety net, they gotta dance real smooth to seal the deal. It’s a high-stakes game, my friends, and the Oilers are playing for keeps.
Holland May Still be Useful Here
You’re probably not going to like this but hold onto your seats, fight fans! Ken Holland is plugged into Russian players, and he’s got the secret weapon, Dan Milstein, making moves. It’s not just any connection—it’s a legit bond. And let me drop this bomb on you: Milstein isn’t just any dude; he’s the agent for current Oilers Evander Kane and Matvei Petrov.
Now, consider this: Holland’s got this direct line to Russian talent, and Milstein’s the wizard behind the scenes. When they step into the trade negotiations, it’s like having the A-Team with a Russian twist. These guys aren’t just making deals; they’re crafting masterpieces. So, in the wild world of NHL trades, having Milstein in your corner is like having a secret weapon, and the Oilers are playing chess while others play checkers.
Cost
The Flames are hitting the reset button, and the Oilers are in the spotlight for a potential trade showdown and that means Calgary is going to want prospects and picks, but there’s a hiccup in the grand plan—the salary cap tango.
Enter Cody Ceci, a bit lighter on the cap but for an extra year and the Flames need somebody to play on their right side because if they turf Tanev they’ll only have Rasmus Andersson as a proper right-shot NHL dman.
Spice it up with prospects like Max Wanner, Markus Niemelainen, and/or the potential rising star of Matvei Petrov, and then toss in a shiny 3rd rounder in 2025 for good measure just to try and give the offer more of a kick in the ass.
Another option could be to get Calgary to eat 50% of Zadorov’s contract in return for somebody like Xavier Bourgault or Philip Broberg and Brett Kulak.
Remember how the Flames snagged Zadorov for a 3rd rounder from Chicago in ’21? Does anyone seriously think his stock has skyrocketed since then? It’s a cap chess match, and the Oilers are strategizing their next move.
