NHL Rumors: Insider Links Blue Jackets Defenseman to Oilers

It is not a secret that the Edmonton Oilers are looking to improve the left side of their defensive group before the trade deadline passes. They are considering all of their trade options because of it, and they currently are one of the teams calling about Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov because of it, according to NHL insider Pierre LeBrun.

It makes sense that the Oilers are considering the prospect of acquiring Gavrikov. He is one of the top defensemen currently available for trade, and he would fill a major need that they have. He could fit nicely on their second pairing and form a strong duo with offensive defenseman Tyson Barrie. This is because Gavrikov plays a steady defensive game. However, besides being very reliable, he also contributes offensively from time to time.

Gavrikov's market is significantly increasing as we get closer to the deadline, so the Oilers are going to have a lot of competition to successfully acquire him. We will need to wait and see if they can do just that from here.