Edmonton Oilers linked to Montreal Canadiens defender

It’s no secret that the Edmonton Oilers are exploring the market for some help on the blue-line, and NHL insider Pierre LeBrun has recently linked Montreal Canadiens defenceman David Savard to the Edmonton Oilers.

In a recent article published by the Athletic, hockey insider Pierre LeBrun has sparked an interesting conversation in Oil Country.

LeBrun suggests that the Edmonton Oilers may not require a top-4 defenceman, instead, they could benefit from a physical defender who would provide a strong presence in the bottom pairing.

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Pierre LeBrun on David Savard

ÂťEnter the Oilers. There will be sexier trade targets on the market, to be sure, but I think as a sixth or seventh defenseman who can help kill penalties and who won a Cup with the Lightning – plus is a right-shot D – he’s a sensible idea for Edmonton. Especially considering I don’t think Savard would cost an arm and a leg.

– Pierre LeBrun, the Athletic

According to Puckpedia, David Savard is signed to a 4 year, $14,000,000 contract with a cap hit of $3,500,000 per season. His contract was signed on July 28, 2021, and expires at the end of the 2024-25 season.

Through 32 regular season games so far, the Habs veteran has notched 1 goal 8 assists, posting an even +/- rating on the ice.

According to Liam McCormick of Oilers Daily, The Edmonton Oilers have been producing much better defensive results than expected this season, with depth defenders like Troy Stecher and Ty Emberson stepping up to adequately fill a role – as well as Darnell Nurse’s miraculous turnaround.

The improved defensive results have caused more than a few analysts to suggest that the Oilers may be better suited adding an impact player elsewhere.

Regardless, Bob Stauffer reported that the Edmonton Oilers could be looking for an “off-radar defenceman, and David Savard fits the bill perfectly.