On the Edmonton Oilers …
David Staples of the Edmonton Journal: Staples doesn’t think the Oilers should trade Taylor Hall this offseason, but he looks at the pros and cons of such a move.
Reasons to trade Hall.
- He isn’t a consistent defensive player
2. His value is high because he score and make others around him better.
3. His leadership has been called into question.
4. Has a good contract ($6 million a season) which makes him more valuable.
5. Plays a reckless style which could make for a shorter career.
6. His best scoring years could be behind him.
7. He plays the wing which is not a key position. Trading a winger for a defenseman makes sense.
8. He shoots left. On the power play they have left-handed shots in Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins.
Reasons on keep Hall.
- He can play defense.
2. Can drive the attack on the second line.
3. His scoring was down this year, but he was still creating chances.
Unless they are offered a top defenseman like P.K. Subban, Oliver Ekman-Larsson or Erik Karlsson – which they likely won’t be – the Oilers are better off keeping him.
On the Toronto Maple Leafs …
Platinum Seat Ghosts: Bob McKenzie on where he thinks Mitch Marner will end up playing next season: “I see him in the Toronto Maple Leafs lineup.” … “There might be growing pains, he might spend some games in the press box.”
On the Boston Bruins …
Chris Nichols: Elliotte Friedman on the Bruins: “I thought it was interesting w/ Sweeney saying we’re not going to change the coach, and roster will be very similar.” … “I just think Sweeney “is trying to set the bar low, which is probably a smart thing to do.” … “But I don’t think they’re coming back w/ mostly the same team. I think you could see them try some pretty interesting stuff.”
