Columbus Goalie Unhappy: Will Oilers Trade for Him?
With the Oilers needing help between the pipes, will they target a disgruntled Blue Jackets goaltender?
Over the last few months, Columbus Blue Jackets goaltender Elvis Merzlikins has picked up steam as a trade candidate in the NHL. Now, more fuel has been added to the fire, as the 29-year-old made it abundantly clear to reporters that he is unhappy with his current situation in Columbus and that a move could be on the way.
Merzlikins shared that although he has not requested a trade, he and the team have agreed to find "a new scenario" for him. He noted that he is unhappy that he is no longer their number-one goaltender and will not be a backup goalie.
Merzlikins has essentially become the Blue Jackets' third-string goaltender. He has not played since Dec. 29 against the Toronto Maple Leafs, while Spencer Martin and Daniil Tarasov have gotten the starts.
So, with all of this, should the Oilers be in the mix for Merzlikins? At a minimum, they absolutely should be considering making a push for him. He is one of the top goaltenders on the market right now, and he would give Edmonton a much-needed upgrade in goal.
Merzlikins is also having a solid season for the Blue Jackets, even with the club no longer playin him. In 23 games, he has a 7-8-6 record but also a .907 SV%.
At the end of the day, Merzlikins would have the potential to be an excellent addition to the Oilers. He has shown throughout his career that he is an effective starting goaltender. Joining a much better Oilers team could be the spark he needs to get his numbers up, too.
The Oilers would need to get creative to fit him in financially. Jack Campbell, along with assets for Columbus taking on his contract, would likely need to be included.
Merzlikins would be a potential long-term addition for the Oilers between the pipes if acquired. As a result, they should be paying very close attention to this situation over the next few weeks.
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