In the latest NHL trade market news, the Edmonton Oilers are reportedly showing interest in veteran defenseman Chris Tanev. TSN’s Darren Dreger mentioned on OverDrive that the Oilers are keen on acquiring Tanev to bolster their defensive lineup. While not positioned as frontrunners, the Oilers are among several teams pursuing the experienced player.
According to Pierre LeBrun, speaking on a TSN Sportscentre segment, the current asking price for Tanev involves a 2nd round pick plus an additional asset sought by the Calgary Flames.
LeBrun highlighted the challenge facing the Toronto Maple Leafs in meeting this demand due to their lack of 2nd round picks for the next three years. Consequently, Calgary is reportedly requesting a 1st round pick from Toronto to secure Tanev.
While it remains uncertain if Toronto was the lead contender among the teams vying for Tanev, the Leafs’ difficulty in arranging the trade presents an opportunity for other clubs, including the Oilers.
Regarding the potential acquisition of Tanev, analysts express consensus that relying on Cody Ceci in the top four during the playoffs may not be optimal for the Oilers.
Tanev emerges as an appealing option, bringing a proven track record and a traditional defensive style that could significantly enhance Edmonton’s defensive capabilities. He excels in handling demanding minutes and could complement Darnell Nurse effectively as his defensive partner.
With his reputation as a top-tier defender and a well-rounded skill set, Tanev could effectively address Edmonton’s defensive shortcomings. His presence may allow Nurse to adopt a more offensive role, while solidifying their partnership as the team’s primary shutdown duo.
While Dreger did not disclose the extent of the Oilers’ pursuit, he suggested that they are a team to monitor in this regard.
