Quote:
Originally Posted by NegativeSpace
I'm not sure that I agree that they are in a better position than before. I feel like they signed historically more talented players - all forwards - who have their own concerns. Even without considering the past injury concerns, these players also could have poor chemisty or not fit into the system. In addition, players like Henrique that worked over a short time could be a flash in the pan and struggle over a full season.
In contrast Broberg and Holloway had the potential to pop adding to the roster in more substantial ways and they have lost Ceci who - despite his flaws as a player - gave them decent minutes.
When I look at the Oilers roster at present, in my view they have not made themselves more competitive to win in the playoffs. Their defence, size, and durability have become more questionable.
Now, they have more cap flexibility so they could potentially add some items to their list at the trade deadline. However, the season is long and injuries happen to all teams. So, it is tough sitting here today to determine how this roster will mesh and what the needs are today. If they have a bunch of cash to spend but there are no decent options available, then that doesn't help them much.
|
Both are nothing but potential - they may as well be AHLers for all they’ve done.
You can’t pay two AHLers nearly $8M when you don’t have cap.
Skinner >>>>>>> Holloway. He’s making four hundred grand more than Holloway will this year, and he has 650 more points. He’s not a $9M player, but three straight 20 goal seasons and a combined -2 over the last three years for the Sabres? That’s a bargain and a half for a team like the Oilers.
I don’t like the Ceci trade either - I think they traded a solid, affordable player who was surely well liked in the room, and don’t have anyone to replace him.
They’re not likely to worry about nobody being available at the deadline - they aren’t going to need to add a superstar, they’re going to need to add reliable veterans who can skate.
Theyre probably good enough to scrape by until at least Christmas as they look to add to the roster, and they have all of their 2026 picks, plus Savoie to trade.
Your mileage on that plan may vary.
Personally, I’d choose that course over Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg suddenly getting way better.