Nail Yakupov Trade Rumors

Nail Yakupov of the Edmonton Oilers is the subject of rampant trade rumors for the 2013-2014 NHL season. The first overall 2012 draft pick performed well last season, scoring the most goals for rookies. He was also tied with Jonathan Huberdeau for the most points as a rookie, yet he was not nominated as a top 3 Calder Trophy candidate.

Yakupov has struggled in the early going of this season. His coach has little faith in him defensively, demoting him to the third line where he gets little ice time. With the return of Jesse Joensuu tonight, Yakupov may be a healthy scratch according to the Edmonton Journal. Joensuu has performed well in the early going whereas Yakupov has struggled.

The Oilers have an abundance of talented wingers in Taylor Hall, Jordan Eberle, Ales Hemsky, and David Perron. With only 1 win in their first 4 games to start the season, GM Craig MacTavish is looking to upgrade his goalie, defense or center positions. The Philadelphia Flyers, Winnipeg Jets, Phoenix Coyotes and Buffalo Sabres are interested in trading for Nail Yakupov.