Rumor: Edmonton Oilers Looking to Acquire Mike Hoffman

Edmonton Oilers GM Ken Holland stated a few weeks ago in an interview with the Edmonton Sun that if his team is firmly in playoff position come the February 24th trade deadline, he will look to reward his team and try to upgrade the team's top-six forward group. 


The Oilers were reportedly interested in Florida Panthers forward Mike Hoffman two seasons ago, when the winger had a very public falling out in Ottawa. A trade never materialized and the Oilers have still been looking for top-six help ever since. There is a feeling in Oil Country that the Oilers may be able to win a few rounds in the playoffs (considering how weak the pacific division is) and the time may be now to load up. Travis Yost of TSN wrote an article about Hoffman being the "perfect" fit in Edmonton today and excitement is growing with each win Oil Country.

A trade would most likely be centered around Jesse Pulijujarvi and draft picks. The draft picks could possibly be a 2nd this year(conditional on making playoffs) 1st next year, conditional on Hoffman re-signing this summer. Both teams are pressed right up to the cap, so the Panthers may have to take a contract back such as Sam Gagner or Kris Russell to make the trade work. Both Hoffman and Russell have 10-team no trade clauses. The Panthers have had great success bringing in young players in their forward corps the last few seasons, A change of scenery and a chance to play with Alexander Barkov could unlock the full potential of the 2016 4th overall pick Jesse Pulijujarvi.

The Edmonton Oilers currently sit atop the Pacific Division with 23 games left to go and have won three of their last four games since McDavid was injured. Will Ken Holland keep his word and reward his players by going all-in at the trade deadline?