Insider Elliotte Friedman links the Edmonton Oilers to another $9M player

The Oilers have struggled at the start of the season especially on defense making it no secret that they're looking to make significant upgrades. GM Stan Bowman has been aggressive in his search for top four defensemen with Friedman suggesting several potential targets.

Initially names like Cam Fowler from the Ducks, Chicago's Connor Murphy & Matt Benning who was recently traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs were on the list but now Seth Jones has emerged as an intriguing option.

While Jones would be a strong addition alongside Darnell Nurse, his $9.5 million salary, which runs through the 2029-30 season, presents a major obstacle for the Oilers' cap space. To make the deal work Edmonton might need to involve a third team & give up significant draft picks which would be a major risk.

Bowman's connection to Jones whom he signed to this big contract during his time in Chicago shows his high regard for the player. However other targets like Fowler or even Rasmus Andersson might be more realistic options for Edmonton. For now it's a waiting game to see how Bowman addresses the Oilers defensive needs.