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Rumours and Rumblings

July 26, 2021, 11:54 AM ET [26 Comments]
Sean Maloughney
Edmonton Oilers Blogger • RSSArchiveCONTACT
We are less than 48 hours before the start of Free Agency so let's discuss a number of rumours and rumblings that have been circling around social media, the chances of them occurring, and whether or not they would be good moves to begin with.

BARRIE
Almost from the moment that it was announced that Adam Larsson would sign in Seattle, rumours started to pop up regarding Barrie. The Oilers have certainly been talking to the Barrie camp but as of right now no deal exists. It seems Edmonton doesn't want to offer more than a three year deal while the Barrie camp is looking for a four or five year deal.

Barrie and the Oilers just are not a fit again. The team needs to have Bouchard getting in some PP time to find out if he can be that guy for them for the next decade and Barrie in no way fills the defensive holes that losing Larsson created. I don't see anything happening until free agency begins as the Barrie camp is going to wait and see what they can get elsewhere.

GETZLAF
Some time back, I described Getzlaf as the perfect third line centre option for the Oilers. A big, tough to play against centreman who can still put up points in the league and can help to bring along some of the young players as well. Even at 36 years of age, Getzlaf has shown he can still produce, even on an offensively deficient Ducks team. I cast this rumour aside some time ago because there seemed like no chance that Getzlaf would come to Canada but recently more rumours have popped up that the once elite centre would consider a move. Exactly the kind of player Edmonton needs.

KUEMPER
The Coyotes are clearly in fire-sale mode again as they have been shipping off assets left and right. Most recently discussed has been goaltender Darcy Kuemper. Kuemper has one more year remaining on a contract with a 4.5 million dollar cap but the actual salary he is owed this season is 5.5 million. Arizona is clearly trying to avoid spending wherever possible and the Oilers need a starting goaltender. A match seems perfect here. The biggest concerns with Kuemper have always been his health but when he is on he is one of the best netminders in the league.

OTHER BUSINESS
The Oilers have tendered qualifying offers for Cooper Marody, Kailer Yamamoto, Tyler Benson, and Stuart Skinner. These players will all get slight raises if they agree to the terms. That means the likes of Domink Kahun and Jujhar Khaira will not be qualified. Both players could receive new deals in Free Agency but I see it unlikely for both.

There are also rumblings that Edmonton is looking to see if there is a trade out there for James Neal and if no suitor is found the winger will likely be bought out. I will keep an eye on this one today.
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