NHL Rumors: Oilers and Blue Jackets Emerging as Trade Partners

While most of the trade buzz surrounding the Edmonton Oilers has been strictly focused on upgrading their goaltending, it turns out the hockey club has more than just interest in adding to their crease. Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman recently reported the Oilers and Columbus Blue Jackets could become trade partners and look for Blue Jackets forward Kevin Stenlund to be involved. 

If Edmonton does a deal with Columbus, and I’m not convinced Korpisalo is the right move, watch to see if the Oilers also look at Kevin Stenlund. He’s in the AHL on a one-way contract. Big body who can play. Edmonton needs some beef. - Elliotte Friedman, 32 Thoughts

Certainly not a household name Oilers fans are likely familiar with, Stenlund is a former second-round pick currently playing for the Cleveland Monsters of the American Hockey League where he's put up 18 points in 24 games. The native of Sweden has played 71 career NHL games since being drafted in 2015 and is known to be a physical presence who loves to mix it up in the dirty areas. 

The Oilers aren't known as an overly intimidating team besides Zack Kassian so adding someone like Stenlund to their mix may be a good idea. Doesn't sound like it will cost much to get him out of Columbus either. He's currently in the final season of his contract making $1.05 million on the season.