Keys to the offseason for the Edmonton Oilers
Ryan S. Clark and Kristen Shilton of ESPN: Taking a look at what the Edmonton Oilers could have in store this offseason.
Projected cap space: $16.5 million
2026 draft picks: 2nd, third, sixth, seventh
The Edmonton Oilers have Connor McDavid signed for 2 more years, and so they’ll have to work out a way this offseason to bounce back after an ‘average’ season. The Oilers can be once more on the lookout for some team-friendly contracts. They may also explore the thought of moving out a bigger contract that doesn’t have Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl‘s name on it.
What direction will the Los Angeles Kings go in as they could be working with a lower internal cap number?
John Hoven of Mayors Manor: A rebuild for the Los Angeles Kings seems unlikely. While they fight to stay competitive, they should work out what their big picture goes to be.
Defenseman Drew Doughty is entering the ultimate 12 months of his contract and has said he desires to play until he’s 40 years old, so 4 more seasons. If either side talk this offseason and choose that after his current contract is up, they’ll consider a unique direction, they it is likely to be their best interest to explore the thought of a trade this offseason.
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The Kings blue line needs to alter. Mikey Anderson, Brandt Clarke and Cody Ceci are the almost certainly to be back, so two of Doughty, Brian Dumoulin and Joel Edmundson ought to be moved. Angus Booth could also be their only defenseman within the AHL that his able to make the jump.
The Kings will need some help down the center, and the Kings will likely have an internal budget and have limited assets to make use of to accumulate one. Adding a middle like Robert Thomas (Blues) or Auston Matthews (Leafs), or Brady Tkachuk (not a middle) could be difficult. Teams would ask for Quinton Byfield, Clarke, first-round picks, and their young goalies (Hampton Slukynsky and Carter George). There may be a mutual interest between the Kings and Scott Laughton.
Although the salary cap is moving as much as $104 million, the Kings could also be trying to be around $94 million. Moving salary out can be needed in the event that they want any acquisitions. If the Kings are okay with Anton Forsberg and Erik Portillo in net, they might look to maneuver Darcy Kuemper and his $5 million.
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