Pierre LeBrun reveals how long and how often Bowman and Dubas negotiated Jarry-Skinner trade
NHL insider Pierre LeBrun revealed that Stan Bowman and Kyle Dubas began negotiating way back in the summer and must have spoken 10 times.
Oilers general manager Stan Bowman began discussing Tristan Jarry with Pittsburgh Penguins GM Kyle Dubas over the summer, NHL insider Pierre LeBrun reports.
The two spoke about 10 times before Friday's trade, which sent Jarry and 2019 first-round pick Samuel Poulin to Edmonton for Stuart Skinner, defenseman Brett Kulak, and a 2029 second-round pick.
Re Jarry/Skinner trade: "Bowman began having conversations with his Penguins counterpart Kyle Dubas over the summer about Tristan Jarry. They would end up having around 10 discussions between then and Friday, when they completed a trade."
- Pierre LeBrun
- Pierre LeBrun
What happened to Tristan Jarry 11 months ago
Bowman and the Oilers had been watching Jarry closely early this season, noting his resurgence in net. Just 11 months ago, Jarry went unclaimed on waivers, partly due to his contract.
Now, Bowman says that the contract, and the cost certainty it provides, was a major reason for moving on the deal.
The Oilers weren't willing to risk extending Skinner, a pending unrestricted free agent, after inconsistent play this season. They hope Jarry's strong start is sustainable.
His $5.38 million cap hit through 2027-28 fits their long-term plans, but the move carries risk.
Jarry's save percentage has dropped over the past four seasons from .919 to .892 before rebounding to .909 this year, and he was in the AHL less than a year ago.
Why the Oilers decided to take a chance on Tristan Jarry
Jarry's lateral movement and ability to handle Edmonton's style of play were key factors in the trade. Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch expects an adjustment period, as Jarry has only played in Pittsburgh.
Bowman made clear Jarry was his top target all summer. In-season goalie upgrades are rare and uncertain, and Skinner, despite last season's strong Western Conference Final performance, had been shaky in the Stanley Cup Final.
Edmonton couldn't gamble on which version of Skinner would show up. Action on goaltending was necessary, and they chose Jarry.
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