NHL Rumors: Edmonton Oilers Eyeing 3 Defenders

The Edmonton Oilers' blueline has had some losses recently, as they traded Cody Ceci to the San Jose Sharks and elected not to match the St. Louis Blues' offer sheet for Philip Broberg. As a result, it has been speculated that the Oilers will look to bring in another defenseman before the start of the season.

Now, that possibility has been confirmed, as Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff reported that the Oilers are currently eyeing Justin Schultz, Tyson Barrie, and Kevin Shattenkirk.

UFA Update: #Oilers are perusing the market for right-shot D, including Justin Schultz, Tyson Barrie and Kevin Shattenkirk, among others.

Also, Max Pacioretty has firm offers in-hand from at least three teams, the veteran forward expected to make a decision soon.
— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) August 23, 2024

Schultz, 34, is a familiar name to Oilers fans, as he spent the first three years of his NHL career in Edmonton. He played this past season with the Seattle Kraken, where he had seven goals, 26 points, and a minus-23 rating in 70 games.

Barrie is another former Oiler, as he played for the club from 2020-21 to 2022-23 before being moved to the Nashville Predators as a part of the trade package to land Mattias Ekholm. This past season was a tough one for Barrie, as he had one goal, 15 points, and a minus-10 rating in 41 games. However, given his past success with the Oilers, perhaps he could bounce back if he returns there.

Shattenkirk is the lone player of this trio who has never played for the Oilers. However, with Edmonton needing another right-shot defenseman, he is another decent option. The New Rochelle, New York native played this past season with the Boston Bruins, where he had six goals, 18 assists, and a minus-2 rating.