Équipe: 2022-23 Oilers d'Edmonton

Date de création initiale: 1 févr. 2023

Publié: 1 févr. 2023

Mode - plafond salarial: Basique

With the recent news that Nyquist’s injury which he sustained during a game against Edmonton surprisingly will keep him out till close to the end of the season, got me thinking about potential destinations for him. Nyquist was not quite on anybody’s radar considering his cap hit, but with the possibility of just sitting him until come playoff time, possibilities are endless

I could see it quite likely oilers not only trade for Gavrikov, but also get Nyquist in return as well. Here’s why it makes sense:

Columbus: It’s been reported the ask for Gavrikov was similar (or more) to what they got for Savard (1st + 3rd) which is exactly what they get back here. 50% retained for a team with little to no playoff hopes isn’t a big deal and I’m sure doesn’t add much value. As for Nyquist. Serviceable middle 6 winger even though he hasn’t quite lived up to that value. Columbus gets a reclamation project in Puljujarvi to even out value in a way. Considering their place in the standings, to get this much value from 2 pending FAs is a win

Edmonton: With the strong play of Broberg as of late, the need for LD has diminished, but we all know it’s still going to happen. Gavrikov seems to get overhated on, solid top 4 defender and the more people to take minutes away from Darnell Nurse, quite frankly the better. As for Nyquist, he was a Holland draft pick!! (Stop me if you heard that before) and played quite well for him in detroit. No salary retention out of Nyquist as he’d be lifted from LTIR just in time for the playoffs. With the Oilers current depth up front for forwards, I think that coasts them into playoffs. As for the value given up, Puljujarvi was the odd man out and we all knew it, it’s about time management gives up a 1st and shows the team they’re serious.

Lines:
I think Woody runs the trusted 11/7 set up here. Broberg sticking in as 7th D over Desharnais (who’s been playing quite well). Shore is the lone FWD scratch where as Demers is the lone DEF scratch. I know Desharnais has been playing quite well but shouldn’t be the 8th defencemen on the NHL squad. Get some AHL playing time and return as a black ace for the playoffs. Demers is a veteran and good locker room guy (like Shore) I would be comfortable sitting for the remainder of the season with a handful of 1 game stretches if someone gets banged up. In order to stay cap complaint Foegele gets sent down. Hopefully tunes up his play (or even gets claimed) where he’ll be used as depth in the playoffs.