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NHL reporter believes Edmonton Oilers should attempt reunion via trade with former first-overall pick

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Daniel Lucente
November 29, 2024  (9:34)
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Taylor Hall seen playing a game with the Chicago Blackhawks
Photo credit: Charles Rex Arbogast/AP

The Chicago Blackhawks are struggling, and the Edmonton Oilers are in need of reinforcements. One reporter proposed the idea of a Taylor Hall reunion.

Taylor Hall isn't going down without a fight. The former Edmonton Oilers winger, now with the Chicago Blackhawks, had been scratched not long ago, for what amounted to a need for extra practice.

But on Wednesday night, he spoke volumes, recording a hat trick as Chicago topped the Dallas Stars 6-2.

The big night was important for Hall, who admitted to frustration with being a healthy scratch. Head coach Luke Richardson's decision wasn't well explained, so Hall had to show it on the ice.

Despite his big night, Hall knows it likely doesn't lock up his future with the Blackhawks. A pending unrestricted free agent, he could be traded by the NHL's Trade Deadline, and Chicago doesn't appear likely to re-sign him.

Adding to the bittersweet nature of the hat trick, Hall lamented having no one there to witness his rebound performance, hinting at personal struggles with his current role on the team.

«I wish I had my family here,» Hall said postgame.


While he hasn't explicitly stated he's unhappy in Chicago, it's speculated he sees the writing on the wall.

'Daily Hive' contributor Preston Hodgkinson looked at the possibility of Hall rejoining the Oilers. With five goals this season, Hall would rank third in scoring among Edmonton forwards, behind only Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.

The Oilers could certainly use his speed and scoring touch, as they have some surprising scoring issues this year compounded by a rash of injuries to players like Zach Hyman.

As a trade target, Hall could be a cheap rental for a playoff contender. Chicago, deep in a rebuild, might retain salary to facilitate a deal.

However, Edmonton's tight cap situation and Hall's $6 million hit pose challenges. Even if feasible, would Hall want to return to Edmonton?

While management has changed, Hall may have moved on from that chapter of his career, despite his strong bond with McDavid.

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NHL reporter believes Edmonton Oilers should attempt reunion via trade with former first-overall pick

Should the Edmonton Oilers try and reunite with Taylor Hall?

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