Équipe: 2021-22 Oilers d'Edmonton

Date de création initiale: 10 déc. 2021

Publié: 13 déc. 2021

Mode - plafond salarial: Basique

In my eyes, the Oilers need to do a few things to become a legitimate cup contender:

1) Trade Barrie. Contrary to most fans on CapFriendly's beliefs, Barrie is definitely not a cap dump. He is a useful offensive player on a fair contract, and is a powerplay facilitator. He simply doesn't fit Edmonton's needs, as the cheaper option of Bouchard has shown he can replicate Barrie's production at a fraction of the cost. The Oilers need a player who can defend better Barrie.

2) Trade Kassian. Zack, on the other hand, is definitely a cap dump. Since signing his contract, he has proven to be a shell of himself, whether that is due to a string of injuries, or just getting paid and checking out. He is an ineffective player, and the Oilers need to move on. Make a package with picks and prospects to dump him while also bringing in an upgrade.

3) Upgrade goaltending. While their goaltending started the year decently, Koskinen is too inconsistent to be trusted for a playoff run with McDavid/Draisaitl in their prime; Mike Smith's health at his age is already showing to be untrustworthy; and Skinner is likely too inexperienced to be relied on to carry the load this year.

4) Improve overall team depth, with an emphasis on 5v5 play. The Oilers 1st PP unit is full, and spends 90% of all powerplays on the ice. They need players who can help them 5 on 5, where they have struggled so far this year. Their PK is also consistently strong, but adding a player or two with PK experience wouldn't hurt.

McDavid and Draisaitl are in their prime, and this team has the luxury of having them on the roster for a minimum of this year and 3 after (McDavid for 4). Now is the time to start trading in some future assets, whether prospects or picks, to build a roster capable of a deep playoff run.

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