NHL Rumors: Oilers One-Time Promising Forward Finished in Edmonton

The Edmonton Oilers are in for some changes this offseason and a big spotlight will be cast on their goaltending and forward group. One name in particular is going to be a interesting case to watch as forward and one-time top prospect Jesse Puljujarvi is on the hot seat.

General manager Ken Holland was very candid after the Oilers season ended thanks to the Colorado Avalanche as Holland admitted he needs to 'figure out Jesse'. This could mean a trade is on the way as other teams witnessed Puljujarvi's ice-time decrease by almost half in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The 24-year-old and former fourth overall pick went from having a fine season to a horrible postseason all in the blink of an eye.

Puljujarvi finished with 14 goals and 36 points in 65 games, meanwhile only put up three points in 16 Stanley Cup Playoff games. His lack of secondary scoring was one of the reasons the Oilers couldn't continue their run. 

Jesse Puljujarvi might have played his last game as an Oiler, per Ryan Rishaug.

I'm not saying he's the next Nichushkin, but there is certainly a comparison to be made... #LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/dAE86YOEUF

— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) June 8, 2022

Holland spoke to the media recently and had this to say about Puljujarvi's future in Edmonton: 

That's what I've gotta sort out. The second half of the year, it was a real struggle. ... I think he lost his confidence. Then when he lost his confidence, he obviously was in the top six, and then he worked his way down to the bottom six. ... I've gotta sort out Jesse

TSN's Ryan Rishaug could see the team prioritizing Kailer Yamamoto during the offseason over Puljujarvi as both players are restricted free agents. Some see Puljujarvi as a prime trade chip to help upgrade in goal for the Oilers.

Photo credit:  Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports