Rumor: More rumblings of a MONSTER deal between Oilers and Habs

​Speculation continues to grow… this would be mind blowing!

HockeyFeed
HockeyFeed
Published 6 years ago
Rumor: More rumblings of a MONSTER deal between Oilers and Habs
Keystone Press

It’s not even December and yet the Edmonton and Montreal media have managed to kick up the hype, rumors and trade speculation surrounding their team’s most valuable players. In the case of the Edmonton Oilers, there continues to be widespread speculation that center Ryan Nugent-Hopkins will be moved this season. In the case of the Montreal Canadiens, it’s cornerstone players Max Pacioretty and Carey Price on the chopping block.

One Oilers insider, David Staples of the Edmonton Journal, addresses the rumors in his latest article and takes a look at a potential fit between the two struggling Canadian franchises. Speaking directly to the idea of Price ending up in Edmonton, Staples says, “I can’t see how this deal would ever make sense from an Oilers perspective in terms of managing the salary cap and building a winning team.”

Having said that, Staples’ concerns are mostly financial, but if the team could rid themselves of overpriced contracts to Nugent-Hopkins and Milan Lucic then things could change drastically. Would the Oilers even entertain the idea of moving Leon Draisaitl, as has been rumored? Not according to Staples who says, “Why would you trade a top centre like Draisaitl, in his early 20s, for a top goalie like Price, now 30?”

Fair point. Draisaitl looks poised to be a superstar. Price may indeed be a top goaltender, but his age, price tag and injury history are all huge red flags.

So, at this point it looks like any rumors of a blockbuster trade between the Oilers and Habs are just that… rumors. Circumstances could change, but until that happens don’t hold your breath.