A trade from Ken Holland is not looking good as the defenseman he's traded is shinning elsewhere
The Edmonton Oilers' decision to trade for Nick Bjugstad at the 2023 NHL Trade Deadline is looking like a significant error especially with Michael Kesselring's rise in Utah.
General Manager Ken Holland dealt a third-round pick and Michael Kesselring to the Coyotes for Nick Bjugstad who provided solid but brief contributions during his 19 games with the Edmonton Oilers last year. However, the trade appears much more one sided now as Kesselring has emerged as a potential breakout defenseman for Utah.
Kesselring was considered a depth prospect at the time of the trade. But since moving to Arizona, he's seized loop his opportunity by playing 65 games with the Coyotes last season. This year, he's solidified his place in a top-pairing role with Mikhail Sergachev on the Utah Hockey Club by scoring two goals and two assists in six games. Michael Kesselring's size, his physical play and his right-handed shot make him a valuable asset on the blue line as a premium position in the NHL.
His strong start this season signals that Kesselring is on the verge of becoming a key player in the Utah defense which is something Edmonton could desperately use right now. His potential star power only emphasizes the sting of the trade and especially since Nick Bjugstad returned to Utah this season.
While Holland made some successful trades like the acquisition of Mattias Ekholm, the loss of Kesselring may haunt the Oilers for years to come. Trading prospects always carries risks but this one might pay off for the Utah HC.
Source: Oilers Daily
Former Oilers Prospect Developing Into Stud Defenceman in Utah
