According to an NHL insider, teams are vying for an Oilers defenseman in a deal
As the Edmonton Oilers navigate through their offseason maneuvers, a significant spotlight has been cast on defenseman Cody Ceci.
During a recent episode of the Oilers Now Podcast, Daily Faceoff CEO Frank Seravalli shared insights suggesting a robust trade market for Ceci. According to Seravalli, there's an "absolute 100% trade market" for the 30-year-old blueliner, a sentiment that aligns with the strategic reshuffling efforts by Oilers president and interim general manager Jeff Jackson. Ceci, known for his defensive capabilities, albeit occasionally marred by errors, appears to be at a pivotal crossroad in his career.
The debate around Ceci's future with the Oilers intensifies, especially considering his compatibility with teammates such as Darnell Nurse, Mattias Ekholm, and Evan Bouchard. Critics argue that Ceci's playing style might not harmonize well with the team's defensive core, posing challenges for the management's decision-making process. This discourse has become a talking point among fans and analysts alike, many of whom advocate for a fresh start for Ceci away from Edmonton.
Ceci is approaching the end of his four-year contract valued at $13 million, which carries a cap hit of $3.25 million. This financial aspect, combined with his experience, makes him a viable candidate for teams seeking to bolster their defensive lineup.
The NHL landscape is rife with teams in various stages of rebuilding, searching for seasoned defensemen to add stability and leadership. Potential suitors like the Utah Hockey Club, Anaheim Ducks, and Chicago Blackhawks are reportedly interested in exploring avenues to integrate Ceci into their squads.
As Jeff Jackson settles into his role as interim general manager, his approach to reshaping the Oilers' roster becomes increasingly apparent. With several potential moves on the horizon, Jackson's willingness to field calls for Ceci suggests a proactive strategy in leveraging existing assets to enhance the team's competitive edge. The coming weeks are likely to be pivotal as the Oilers continue to recalibrate their lineup, with Cody Ceci's future hanging in the balance, drawing keen interest from across the league.
| POLL | ||
Is a deal with the Oilers necessary this summer to transfer Cody Ceci? | ||
| Yes | 144 | 75.8 % |
| No | 46 | 24.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
