The Oilers are reportedly about to sign a free agent defenseman at any moment

Travis Dermott, who is in Edmonton Oilers training camp on a professional tryout offer, seems very close to getting a contract. According to recent reports on the 2 Mutts Hockey Podcast, negotiations have gone a long way and an impending deal is likely in the near future. With his strong camp and his experience already established, it seems like Dermott is setting himself up to be a member of the Oilers' defense.

At 27, Dermott has established himself as a serviceable left-shot defenseman. A second-round pick of the Toronto Maple Leafs, he has compiled 329 games in the NHL for the Leafs, Vancouver Canucks, and Arizona Coyotes. He has performed well analytically and adds 22 games of playoff experience, placing him ahead of the post-season resumes of the likes of Oilers defenders Josh Brown and Troy Stecher. That makes him a real good addition to Edmonton's lineup, if he comes in.

The Oilers have a bit of a battle on their hands at two defensive roster positions presently: one on the second pair and one on the right side of the third pairing. Dermott, a left-shot defender, has at times during his career played the right side, further adding to his flexibility. In one of his most recent preseason appearances, he slotted beside Darnell Nurse on the second pair and had a very good game, even chipping in with a goal as he pinched offensively.

The connections between Dermott and the Oilers go well beyond the ice, as he is a longtime friend of star forward Connor McDavid, and having been coached by Kris Knoblauch with the Erie Otters. Along with his consistent play, these personal relationships also make him more likely to become a roster fixture.

With just six days remaining until the Oilers begin their regular season against the Winnipeg Jets, Edmonton has both the cap space and opportunity to sign Travis Dermott to a rather reasonable contract, likely around $850,000. Whether or not Dermott's presence alters the defensive lineup, his addition could prove a savvy depth move as the team heads into the new season.