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The Edmonton Oilers could find a potential replacement for Connor McDavid in another impending UFA scorer.
The Edmonton Oilers could be staring at a future without Connor McDavid in the mix. If that’s the case, the club will need to find a replacement for their captain’s offensive production.
Of course, replacing McDavid is no easy task. There are virtually no players out there who can consistently produce 100 points year after year. But there could be one player who might fit the bill in the event the Oilers were certain McDavid would not re-sign this upcoming season.
That potential replacement for McDavid could be impending UFA Kirill Kaprizov.
As it stands, the Minnesota Wild are uncertain about re-signing their most talented player. Like the Oilers, the Wild are heading into this season with their star player’s future in limbo. The Wild have said all the right things about keeping Kaprizov in the fold.
But until there’s a signature on a new contract, it’s all talk. So, the Wild could explore a trade if they get desperate enough this season. Here’s a look at what this bold trade proposal could look like:
Oilers get:
Kirill Kaprizov, F
Wild get:
2027 first-round pick
2028 first-round pick
Matthew Savoie, F
This trade idea sends two first-rounders to Minnesota, given how Kaprizov stands to become one of the NHL’s best players for the latter portion of this decade. The inclusion of Matthew Savioe could be something the Wild may insist on as a replacement for their lost star’s production.
Why Kaprizov Would Be Good Fit for Oilers
The first thing that stands out in replacing McDavid with Kaprizov is that the Russian star is a winger, not a center. However, Kaprizov would slide in perfectly well on Leon Draisaitl’s wing. Since Draisaitl would automatically become the Oilers’ top-line center upon McDavid’s departure, he’ll need a high-end winger to play with.
That’s where Kaprizov could form a mind-shocking line with Draisaitl. The duo could terrorize opposing defenses with speed and skills.
Yes, the Oilers’ center depth would take an enormous hit without McDavid. But then again, Edmonton could explore other options down the middle in the free-agent market next summer. The club could hopefully find a second-line center at an affordable price point.
Also, a stacked top line would make the Oilers a top-heavy club. But then again, passing up the opportunity to add someone like Kaprizov, a three-time 40-goal scorer, is too good to pass up.
Edmonton Would Have to Re-Sign Kaprizov
Like McDavid, Kaprizov needs a new contract. So, the Oilers would need to re-sign him almost immediately. Rumors suggest that Kaprizov could command as much as $16 million from the Wild.
However, Kaprizov may be willing to take a slight pay cut to sign with a top contender. That’s a possibility. But even if Kaprizov hit the Oilers with full price, the deal would be worth it. The cap ceiling will be going up next season. So, the increase in the cap ceiling could offset Kaprizov’s cap hit.
Ultimately, Edmonton would need to be certain that Kaprizov is willing to re-sign before pulling the trigger on the deal. Such a condition could be built into the trade’s structure before it occurs.
Nestor Quixtan Seasoned NHL analyst focused on covering all 32 teams with news, analysis, and insights. Originally from Toronto, Canada, Nestor’s singular experiences and background have enabled him to bring a different take on the sports world as a whole. More about Nestor Quixtan
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