Edmonton could replace the defenseman in the jam

The Edmonton Oilers have worked hard to become a defensively tighter team over the last few seasons. Their efforts have yet to translate to the Stanley Cup, falling to the Florida Panthers two years in a row, but the blue line has become an important component of this team led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draizeitl. Still, the added depth may force general manager Stan Bowman to makes difficult decisions.

NHL insider Elliott Friedman highlighted the plethora of defensemen the Oilers currently have on their roster, which was even more noticeable after Jake Wollman’s heroic season debut on Tuesday night. He acknowledged the possibility of the organization trading one of them to get out potential downtime. An abundance of wealth is always a good problem to have, but perhaps Edmonton could solve other needs.

Bradley Keith of Pro Hockey Rumors believes one of Ty Emberson, Alec Regula and Troy Stecher could be dealt before the March 6 NHL trade deadline.

The Oilers might have the flexibility to make something

Stecher has a lot of mileage on him at 31 years old, but has proven to be adept in his first two seasons with Edmonton. His decades of experience might be too valuable for Bowman to deliver. Former third-round draft picks Regula and Emberson are both 25 and could offer more long-term upside. The Oilers have a lot to weigh as they try to win the Western Conference for the third straight campaign.

Since McDavid signed a contract extension with the teamthe front office must operate with a proactive mindset. Trading a defensive talent for another potential contributor could help Edmonton become a more well-rounded unit. Time will tell what Bowman thinks is the right course of action to take.

In the meantime, it’s good to see extension of Jake Wallman pay dividends immediately. The veteran blueliner scored the decisive goal in Tuesday’s 3-2 overtime win against the Ottawa Senators. He won’t have to worry about hearing his name in the rumor mill, but others may have to earn their spot on the Oilers.