Wanna blog? Start your own hockey blog with My HockeyBuzz. Register for free today!
 

Eberle Signing Looking Less Likely - Trade to Edmonton?

March 7, 2024, 5:17 PM ET [14 Comments]
Sean Maloughney
Seattle Kraken Blogger • RSSArchiveCONTACT
There appears to be a snag in the potential of the Kraken signing pending UFA winger Jordan Eberle. A couple of days ago it seemed likely that both sides wanted to reach an agreement on a contract extension, prior to the trade deadline. Today according to Frank Seravalli, those talks have stalled and the winger may now be dealt.

According to Seravalli, the issue is the length of the contract. The Eberle camp wants a third year on the deal while Seattle is holding firm at two years. On the Kraken side of things, it's easy to understand why. Eberle has still be a productive player for them this season but he is 33 years old (34 on May 15th) and his numbers have started to dip. The team can likely get good value out of Eberle for another year, maybe two but a 37 year old Eberle may not be providing the team as much, especially with the team hoping to be a competitive playoff team at that time.

If these talks break down, it's likely that the Kraken will move Eberle at the deadline and perhaps revisit a contract with him in Free Agency if his camp discovers no other team is interested in a three or more year deal. Enter the Edmonton Oilers.

This morning the Oilers sent Dylan Holloway down and now have roughly 2.1 million dollars in cap space, they could be a suitor for the player if they find a third party team to assist in retention.

What does Edmonton have that Seattle would be interested in? The Oilers have traded their first round pick and Eberle likely isn't worth that but Edmonton still has their second round pick this season. If I'm Ron Francis, I'm also looking at Raphael Lavoie; a volume shooter who has been lighting up the lamp in the AHL for the Condors. Seattle needs an Eberle replacement and the 23 year old prospect hasn't been given a legitimate chance by the Oilers yet. It would be fun to see Wright and Lavoie get some heavy offensive zone minutes for Seattle and see what they could create.

Friday is the deadline so we will have to wait and see how this unfolds.
Join the Discussion: » 14 Comments » Post New Comment
More from Sean Maloughney
» Kraken Season Opener + New Captain?
» Wright Skating In Top Nine Role
» Did the Kraken Get "Good" Too Soon?
» Kraken Extend (Future Captain?) Adam Larsson
» Seattle Nearing 7 Year Extension with Beniers