Edmonton Oilers change course with Jack Campbell; trade now on the table

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Sam Jones
June 28, 2024 (11:29)

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The NHL's compliancy buyout window is soon to open, igniting discussions and speculations among fans and analysts alike.

In a surprising twist, the Edmonton Oilers are reportedly exploring options to trade goalie Jack Campbell instead of opting for a buyout. This development comes on the heels of the team's dramatic seven-game series in the Stanley Cup finals, which has left the management and fans reeling.

Jack Campbell, who is mid-way through a five-year contract worth $25 million, has had a tumultuous season. Initially signed with high hopes, his performance dipped significantly, leading to a demotion to the minors with the Bakersfield Condors. This move was unexpected as Campbell lost his starting position to Stuart Skinner, marking a significant turn in his career trajectory.

According to Elliotte Friedman, a respected voice from the 32 Thoughts podcast, the Oilers' strategy involves trading Campbell rather than buying him out. "I think you guys are trying to trade him as opposed to buy him out, we'll see if that works," Friedman remarked during a recent episode. The implications of such a move are significant for both Campbell and the Oilers, suggesting a shift in strategy that could impact the team's financial and operational dynamics.

The Oilers' front office has been under scrutiny, especially after the recent announcement that Ken Holland, the team's general manager, might be departing. This adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing saga, as leadership changes could influence major decisions, including those about player contracts and team strategy.

If the Oilers were to buy out Campbell's contract, based on the $13.5 million remaining, the repercussions would be long-lasting. A buyout would extend the contract's term to six years, with the Oilers absorbing $1.5 million in cap space annually over this period, a scenario that the new management under Jeff Jackson, CEO and president of hockey operations, is likely keen to avoid.

As the situation unfolds, the Oilers' decision on Campbell's future is poised to be a defining moment for the franchise. With the new leadership, the possibility of retaining Campbell if a trade does not materialize remains high. The coming days will be critical in shaping the Oilers' strategy as they navigate the complexities of NHL contracts and player performance.

As Edmonton navigates these challenging waters, the outcomes will resonate not just within the team but across the league, influencing strategies and perhaps setting a precedent for how teams manage player contracts under the pressure of cap compliance and performance expectations.