I think new Oilers GM Craig MacTavish proved on Saturday that Oilers fans are in for a wild ride this summer.
I offer to you folks a little rumor I'm hearing regarding the Oilers, the draft, and the Flyers.
1. The Flyers have depth-o-plenty at center.
2. The Flyers need defensemen, especially young guys who can play in their Top 4.
3. Apparently, the Flyers are willing to part with one of Brayden Schenn or Sean Courturier to bring in a quality young defenseman.
4. The centers the Oilers would like to acquire at the draft...MacKinnon, or Monahan, or Barkov...will all be gone by 7th overall.
5. With Shawn Horcoff going, going, gone, the Oilers need to find a meaty center to replace him. Someone who can play physical, win face-offs, and give two-way minutes.
6. The player everyone is suggesting the Oilers will draft at 7th overall? Darnell Nurse. A very Flyers-like defenseman if I ever saw one. The Oilers, who have plenty of decent defensive prospects, don't need to add another at this time.
So what we're talking about here is the Oilers moving their 1st round pick (7th overall) to the Flyers for Sean Couturier, who was drafted 8th overall two years ago. Perhaps you throw in a second asset, like a 2nd round pick or a prospect, to make the deal happen. If you're the Flyers, you're likely interested in adding a defensive prospect like a Martin Marincin or Taylor Fedun.
Last time I mentioned Couturier in a trade rumor to Edmonton, Hockeybuzz went crazy. It will be interesting to see how Flyers fans react this time around. I'm not writing this just to get you upset, friends. The Oilers need to come away from the draft day with a center who can play 3rd line minutes ASAP...If Monahan and Barkov are off the board, a deal is more than likely. Couturier is the perfect player to add.
Changing topics, Hawks and Bruins cup final. What can I say? Bruins have got this. While the Hawks looked beatable during the playoffs, the Bruins have not. It should be an epic series any way you slice it.
More on the Oilers coaching situation and potential deals in the AM.
Edmonton Oilers Blogger • 
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