Edmonton is one franchise that has struggled to add the talent necessary to make a push at the playoffs in recent years, despite using the draft to add a number of talented youngsters, but for those who haven’t played to expectations, they could be used to add the depth this franchise needs on the back line.
Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal recently reported that management for the team is stuck in where to play former first round pick Nail Yakupov this season. The 22-year-old scored just 23 points in 60 games last season, not exactly the kind of production they envisioned when they took the speedy Russian when they selected him in 2012.
Entering his fifth season, many hockey experts already expected a trade to happen and despite still wearing an Oilers sweater, that could change in the near future.
One team that could use his services is Montreal as they have issues of their own. Bleacher report writer Lyle Richardson has reported that the Canadiens could look to move young defender Nathan Beaulieu as they look to add some firepower to their front line.
The 23-year-old was third on the team for defensemen with 19 points last season and despite playing good hockey, this team needs more goals if they want to compete in the Eastern Conference. Moving the youngster for Yakupov makes sense for both sides, despite the regular season about to start.
NHL rumors often mean little, but with both sides getting what they want and need, both players being young, and salaries not a real issue it could be a win-win for both teams and maybe the deal that makes them playoff contenders this season.
