Oilers Have 3 Free-Agent Right-Shot Depth Defenseman They Should Target
The Edmonton Oilers have three right-shot depth defensemen who they could target in free agency.
The Edmonton Oilers' roster is looking quite strong heading into the 2023-24 season. Yet, I'd argue that they could use one more right-shot defenseman. Given their cap situation, they would need to target depth defensemen, so let's take a look at three of their potential options.
Cal Foote
Cal Foote could be an interesting project for the Oilers to take on. The 2017 first-round pick was once viewed as a potential top-four defenseman, but he has trouble becoming a full-time NHL player. After posting two goals and seven points in 50 games this past season, the Nashville Predators elected not to send him a qualifying offer.
On a cheap one-year deal, Foote could be worth bringing in. Perhaps playing on a strong team like the Oilers could even be the spark he needs to cement himself as a legitimate bottom-pairing defenseman.
Ryan Merkley
Ryan Merkley is another former first-round pick (2018) who has had trouble with his development. The 22-year-old has just 39 games of NHL experience on his resume, and all of those came back during the 2021-22 season with the San Jose Sharks. In 58 games split between the San Jose Barracuda and Colorado Eagles this past season, he had two goals and 22 points. This was not enough for him to land a qualifying offer from the Colorado Avalanche.
Related: Edmonton Oilers Free Agent Tracker
Although Merkley has had trouble becoming an NHL defenseman, he is still quite young and may have the potential to turn things around. Perhaps the offensive defenseman could find some success with the Oilers.
Mark Pysyk
Mark Pysyk missed the entirety of the 2022-23 season due to a torn Achilles and then a setback he suffered while rehabbing it. However, he is back to skating, and this could open the door to the 31-year-old landing a cheap one-year contract. If he ends up being good to go, the Oilers should consider him.
Pysyk has shown throughout his career that he can be an effective bottom-pairing defenseman when called upon. He is reliable defensively and can be utilized on the penalty kill because of it. Furthermore, he also offers excellent versatility, as he can play the wing if needed. Thus, he could be a nice depth player for the Oilers to consider – if he can stay healthy.
Related: Oilers Miss Out on Filip Zadina
Nevertheless, it will be interesting to see if the Oilers consider bringing in one of these three defensemen this offseason.