NHL Insider Reveals What The Penguins Want From the Oilers For Jake Guentzel

The Edmonton Oilers are in a crucial phase as the trade deadline approaches, facing a dilemma about strengthening their team. Currently, they're experiencing a gap in their goaltending department. With Campbell playing in the minors and Pickard serving as the backup for starter Stuart Skinner, the Oilers, who have their sights set on the Stanley Cup, are in dire need of more reliability and consistency in their goalkeeping.

Despite this pressing need, the goaltender market doesn't seem to offer what the Oilers require for a significant improvement. This situation has led to a strategic pivot; instead of focusing on goalkeeping, they are considering enhancing their already powerful offense. By bolstering their attacking line, the Oilers might compensate for their weaker defense and goaltending.

This shift in strategy brings Pittsburgh Penguins' forward Jake Guentzel into the picture as a potential trade target. Renowned insiders Chris Johnston and Pierre LeBrun have pointed out that acquiring Guentzel could be a smart move for the Oilers. The speculated cost for Guentzel is a first-round draft pick plus a high-end prospect, a price the Oilers are capable of meeting. Names like Philip Broberg or Xavier Bourgalt have been floated as potential trade pieces.

However, pursuing Guentzel would require the Oilers to offload Jack Campbell's entire contract. This move would imply a strong belief in Olivier Rodrigue and Calvin Pickard as competent goalies for the remainder of the season. It's a significant gamble, one that would double down on their offensive strength in hopes of outweighing defensive weaknesses.

As the trade deadline nears, all eyes are on the Oilers' management, particularly GM Ken Holland, to see how they navigate this challenging situation. Their decisions could significantly impact the team's chances for a deep playoff run.