Well this is an interesting piece of work that no one saw coming.

The exact details of the trade are still in the works but it appears that the Oilers are moving a first round pick in exchange for San Jose Sharks defenseman Jake Walman. Walman was acquired by the Sharks in the summer when the Red Wings inexplicably gave up the 29 year old 6'1, 218lb defender for essentially nothing, especially after a 12 goal in 63 game season. Walman has gone on to have a career year with the Sharks with 6 goals and 32 points in 50 games, averaging 23 minutes a game.

While not overly physical (48 hits in 50 games) is a solid two way defender with excellent skating ability who can use his size to absorb a hit and make a play. This is a legitimate top four defenseman who will fit in perfectly with Bouchard, Ekholm, and Nurse in the top 4.

The one curious question is that Walman is a left shot defender. It does not appear that Walman has played much on the right side meaning someone is going to have to play their opposite side. Looking at the future, this is the type of player at 29 who can take on a heavier assignment with Ekholm (34 years of age) eventually going to slow down. Walman is signed for one more year at a cap hit of 3.4 million.

Right now this seems like an excellent get for the Oilers and an astute move by Stan Bowman. We will wait and see what the return is and if the Oilers have any other moves in store.

Thanks for reading.

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