I have decided not to head up to Ottawa until tomorrow. My whole family is essentially battling some sort of virus, and it just wouldn't be right to leave them for goners....

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Bob McKenzie of TSN writes in his latest column on tsn.ca..."In the days leading up to the NHL Entry Draft, be sure to keep an eye on the Edmonton Oilers. They have three first round picks, including the sixth pick overall. But there is another reason and it's that Oilers' General Manger Kevin Lowe is big game hunting. Between now and the July 1 free agency period, Lowe would love to add a pair of top-six forwards and a quality defenceman. Lots of people think there's a better chance of doing that via the trade market than by free agency and Lowe has a lot of currency from which to deal. He has the three first round picks and an entire roster of players that are not untouchable especially after the way the team finished the season after the Ryan Smyth trade. The Oilers would love to get a guy like Brad Richards from the Lightning. With Tampa's expanding budget, Richards isn't likely available but that's the type of splashy and bold move that Lowe would like to pull off. There's no guarantee that a big Oiler trade will happen, and if one doesn't, it won't be for a lack of trying."

I couldn't agree more with Bob's opinion here...I've been writing a lot about the Oilers lately. They are very much active right now. And it makes sense they would be. Losing Ryan Smyth the Oilers are in desperate need of an identifiable star.

A rumor I was about to post today was that one source told me, "The Edmonton Oilers are the Canadian team most likely to grab Kariya. It is the kind of city and situation that Paul feels comfortable in."

Along with Kariya, who was added today, on our b> THE RUMOR CHART the Oilers are currently listed to be possibly linked with Timonen, Stuart, Sopel, LeCavalier, and of course Ryan Smyth.

Other players via trade, included Joni Pitkanen, Marleau, Brisebois, and even a longshot rumor (that was discussed recently in a press box during the playoffs) that would send Jagr to Edmonton. Bizarre to even mention this, but have we learned nothing?

The Oilers are definitely being discussed at length in the rumour mill, and for good reason..


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