Rumor: Four Oilers hit the trade market in wake of Duchene deal

With star forwards Matt Duchene and Kyle Turris officially off the trade market, all eyes are on New York Islanders superstar John Tavares. The “will he or won’t he” scenario playing out between him and the Isles is not unlike the situation between Steven Stamkos and the Tampa Bay Lightning two years ago. With all eyes on Stamkos, Edmonton Oilers GM Peter Chiarelli made a blockbuster deal that NO ONE saw coming. Could he do the same thing again?

In his latest article for NBC Sports, analyst James O’Brien identifies four players on the Oilers’ roster who could find themselves traded before the NHL’s trade deadline on February 26th. Those players: 

• Ryan Nugent-Hopkins
• Jesse Puljujarvi
• Patrick Maroon
• Ryan Strome

There’s so REAL value in those players. While RNH may be tricky to move due to his salary, there’s no doubt that several teams would covet the former #1 overall pick. And Puljujarvi looks like a prime candidate for a breakout season if given a real opportunity on an NHL scoring line. As for Maroon and Strome, they’re depth players who can provide offense in the right situation. Expect teams to at least kick the tires on their names in trade discussions.

So, while nothing is imminent right now, if the Oilers continue to stumble their way through the season don’t be surprised if Chiarelli makes a bold move or two to shore up the situation in Edmonton.