Oilers and Blackhawks Continue to Negotiate Trade

The Edmonton Oilers continue their chase for Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Duncan Keith. The two general managers continue to negotiate the terms of the contract as the Seattle Kraken expansion draft and free agency loom in the background.

Keith and the Blackhawks have agreed to mutually part ways this summer after the 37-year-old defenseman has given everything he's had to the franchise for almost two decades. Last season in 54 games he recorded 15 points. 

Chris Johnston on SN650:

"Ultimately I think it's very likely (Duncan Keith) is an Oiler. If that doesn't come through, Chicago certainly will look elsewhere. But I get the feeling that's been primarily where they've been focused on this deal"

— J (@Account4hockey) July 7, 2021

Keith's interest in leaving Chicago has to do with being closer to his family. The Oilers are well aware of this and the Blackhawks have basically lost their trade leverage because if it's not a deal to Edmonton, Vancouver, Calgary and Seattle appear to be the only other suitors.

Word is the Blackhawks are trying to pry away Caleb Jones from the Oilers meanwhile Edmonton is trying to get Chicago to eat more of Keith's salary. He's due to make $5.53 million for the next two seasons. Talks continue and a deal is likely going to be finalized soon.

PHoto credit:  Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports