The Edmonton Oilers need a new goalie, full stop. One eastern conference team may be willing to provide them one while also taking on the Oiler's worst contract. The Oilers will have to pay the price though.
It is no secret that Jack Campbell has not worked out for the Oilers. Elvis Merzlikins on the other hand, has not found much success in Columbus either. Now both players could have a chance for a fresh start as their clubs reportedly are engaged in trade discussions involving them.
Notably, Merzlikins just came off of injured reserve. The team indicated that they are willing to listen to offers on him around the same time and even Merzlikins himself seems to be in on it as the player and club look for a mutual solution.
Moving Campbell's contract will not be easy in any trade. At this point it is impossible to make a case for him to be a positive value trade asset or even net zero. With his play in the AHL, it will take several sweeteners to get a team to take him on.
Campbell now has a .888 save percentage and 3.61 goals-against-average in the AHL through 9 starts. He still has three years left after this one at a 5 million dollar cap hit. For a team to be willing to take on that contract, the Oilers are likely looking at giving up multiple first-round picks or top prospects. That simply is not a price many teams would be willing to pay. Whether or not the Oilers will, remains to be seen.
