Oilers pursue strategic trade with Ducks to reignite Klim Kostin era and enhance cap flexibility
The Edmonton Oilers find themselves at a crucial juncture, seeking to build a roster that balances star power with cost-effective contracts. As Connor McDavid heads toward a significant payday and Leon Draisaitl begins his new contract, the urgency to secure inexpensive deals is palpable. With several contracts set to expire at the end of the season, the Oilers are exploring avenues to optimize their salary cap space.
Proposed Trade with Anaheim Ducks
Heavy.com suggests a potential trade that could alleviate some financial constraints for the Oilers while also paving the way for a reunion with forward Klim Kostin. The proposed deal would see the Oilers sending Troy Stecher and Mattias Janmark to the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for cap relief and an opportunity to re-sign Kostin.
In this arrangement, the Ducks would acquire Stecher, a 31-year-old right-handed defenseman with 12 years of NHL experience. The 5-foot-10, 184-pound native of Richmond, British Columbia, played 66 games for the Oilers last season, registering seven points. Originally signed by the Vancouver Canucks as an undrafted prospect, Stecher has also suited up for the Detroit Red Wings, Los Angeles Kings, and Arizona Coyotes throughout his career.
The Ducks would also be gaining Janmark, a 32-year-old forward with nine years of NHL experience. Drafted 79th overall by the Red Wings in 2013, Janmark has appeared in 637 career games and brings valuable playoff experience, with 113 games under his belt. His addition would bolster the Ducks’ forward depth as they aim to build a competitive team.
Financial Implications for Edmonton
This proposed trade would free up $2,237,500 in cap space, increasing the Oilers’ total available salary to approximately $2.46 million. This amount would provide sufficient room for the Oilers to sign Kostin to a low-cost contract.
The Case for Klim Kostin’s Return
Klim Kostin’s previous tenure with the Oilers was marked by a solid performance. In his only season with the team, he tallied 11 goals and 21 points, coupled with a physical presence that included 157 hits over 57 games. His desire to return to Edmonton is evident; in a recent interview, Kostin expressed interest in rejoining the team, mentioning that he had received offers from other NHL teams, including one linked to the Los Angeles Kings, where former Oilers GM Ken Holland is now employed.
Kostin articulated his affinity for Edmonton and its passionate fanbase. “I would like to try my luck again. This is the place where I felt most comfortable and was myself,” he stated. He praised the fans for their appreciation of effort, emphasizing that their support motivated him to give his all on the ice. “I wanted to go out and die on the ice for these people,” he added, highlighting the emotional connection he made during his time with the Oilers.
Future Outlook for the Oilers
The potential trade not only aims to revitalize the Oilers’ roster with a player eager to contribute but also addresses their cap situation as the regular season approaches. Allan Mitchell of The Athletic has indicated that Stecher may be at risk of being lost to waivers before the season begins. Additionally, Oilers Now host Bob Stauffer has hinted at the possibility of Janmark being moved to create further cap flexibility.
As the Oilers look to solidify their lineup, the strategic moves they make in the coming weeks will be critical. The possibility of Kostin’s return could inject much-needed energy and determination into a team looking to make waves in the upcoming season.
