NHL Rumors: Oilers Struck Out On This Forward

Although Artturi Lehkonen was dealt to the Colorado Avalanche on trade deadline day, he almost ended up on another team. According to Elliotte Friedman, the Edmonton Oilers expressed a lot of interest in the 26-year-old but couldn't match Colorado's offer.

When looking at what Colorado traded to acquire Lehkonen, one can understand why the Oilers decided against it. The Avalanche sent a 2024 second-round and prospect Justin Barron in the swap. That certainly is a good haul for the Canadiens. Yet, with the Avalanche in win-now mode, it also makes sense why they did it. The Oilers, on the other hand, aren't in a position where they can be deemed as contenders right now.

Lehkonen could have been a very solid addition to Edmonton's lineup, though. In 58 games on the year thus far, he has 13 goals, 16 assists, and an even rating. With that, he works very well on the penalty kill due to his strong defensive play. The Avalanche will surely love to have him around because of it.

Nevertheless, it would have been interesting to see Lehkonen in Edmonton.