Oilers linked to physical defenseman and middle-six forward, per NHL insider
NHL insider David Pagnotta has linked the Oilers to a physical defenseman, similar to Mattias Ekholm, as well as a middle-six depth forward.
Several teams have recently inquired about the availability of Kings centre Philip Danault, according to Frank Seravalli. Danault has struggled offensively this season, recording just five assists in 29 games.
While not known as a prolific goal scorer, his current output is below his usual standards.
What Phillip Danault did at five-on-five last season
Last season, Danault finished +20 at five-on-five, frequently matched against top offensive opponents. Over his career, he has a 53.1% faceoff win rate, making him reliable in late-game and high-pressure situations.
He would also be a key piece on a team's penalty kill, such as on the Oilers, which ranks 18th in the league at 80.8%, a unit in need of reinforcement if Edmonton hopes to contend for a Stanley Cup.
Adding Danault would deepen the Oilers' centre position and allow Ryan Nugent-Hopkins to remain on Connor McDavid's wing.
With McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, Danault, and Evander Henrique anchoring the centre depth, Edmonton could consistently have a strong faceoff presence late in games while protecting leads.
What David Pagnotta said about the Oilers trade interests
NHL insider David Pagnotta noted that the Oilers are looking to add another physical defenseman, possibly an Ekholm Jr., at a lower cap hit, and a middle-six forward, which is why Danault would fit in well if the opportunity arises.
Re Oilers: "If they can bring in another physical D, Ekholm Jr. at a lower cap hit, they'd to do that, and if they can get a mid six guy...that's something they'd love to do."
- David Pagnotta
- David Pagnotta
Cap space is tight, with only $159,000 available. Danault carries a $5.5 million cap hit for this and next season, meaning the Oilers would need to move salary.
Henrique, earning $3 million and a UFA at season's end, could be included, but the Kings would likely also want young players or high draft picks, which Edmonton currently lacks.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 10 | 63 ANSWERS Oilers linked to physical defenseman and middle-six forward, per NHL insider Do you want the Oilers to acquire these two types of players? | ||
| Yes | 37 | 58.7 % |
| No | 26 | 41.3 % |
| List of polls | ||