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Oilers To Lose Larsson To Kraken - UPDATE Smith Extends |
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This is about as worst case scenario as possible for the Edmonton Oilers. Originally reported by Frank Serevalli, it now officially looks like the Seattle Kraken have signed Adam Larsson to a four year deal worth 4 million per season. This will count as Seattle's pick from the Edmonton Oilers.
The Oilers right side is now Ethan Bear and an untested Evan Bouchard. Larsson is a great top four shut down defender and there really isn't anyone else in the Oiler's system or in free agency who fits that description. Jamie Oleksiak on the left side for the Stars would have been the other option but it looks like Seattle is going to sign him too.
Adam Larsson came to the Oilers in the infamous "it is one for one" Taylor Hall trade. The deal was and remains one of the worst in Oilers history in terms of recognizing value and gaining a fair return. That is just fact. That doesn't mean Larsson was a bad player, in fact Larsson has been a massively valuable player for Edmonton over the past five seasons. He brought physicality and strong defensive play to the backend and he will be desperately missed.
Holland seemed to bank on bringing Keith in and having him play with a more veteran and defensive partner in Larsson. That has completely blown up in his face. The fact that Larsson only signed for four million means this was less about dollars and simply that he wanted a change of scenery. He chose an expansion team over one that has McDavid and Draisaitl on it. That should feel like a glaring indictment on this organization.
This could get ugly fast in Edmonton and Holland may very well do something rash like sign Tyson Barrie to a long term deal. Bringing in Barrie does not replace the defensive help that Larsson brings, quite the opposite really and it also takes PP time away from Bouchard. Right now the only name in free agency who can help to solidify the backend would by Dougie Hamilton.
I will update this blog throughout the rest of the day if the Oilers make any more moves or if any other details pop up.
UPDATE
Looks like Mike Smith is staying in Edmonton. Two year deal worth 2 million a season. Do with that information as you will.
Edmonton Oilers Blogger • 
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