Could Jonathan Toews be the answer for the Edmonton Oilers this season?
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The Edmonton Oilers are focused on upgrading their fourth-line center position ahead of the playoffs, but insiders have ruled out Jonathan Toews as an option for this season.
Jonathan Toews has recently expressed interest in an NHL comeback, but The Athletic's Daniel Nugent-Bowman reports it won't happen before the trade deadline.
Jonathan Toews hasn't begun skating after missing two seasons due to chronic immune response syndrome.
"The Oilers are a natural team for Toews to be linked to considering Bowman was his longtime GM in Chicago. However, the possibility of the Oilers signing Toews before the trade deadline is a long shot at this point considering the three-time Stanley Cup champion hasn't resumed skating. Right now, he appears to be more of a player to watch for training camp."
- Daniel Nugent-Bowman
For now, Edmonton is giving
Noah Philp a chance to be at the fourth-line center role and the 24-year-old local product could save the Oilers valuable trade assets if he can be the fourth liner the Edmonton wants.
However, if Philp struggles then Edmonton will probably pursue other options with names like
Nick Bjugstad and
Jake Evans who have surfaced as potential trade targets.
Toews remains an intriguing option for next season if he can regain his previous form since he have 1,036 NHL games and three Stanley Cups to his name that's for sure his leadership and experience could help an Oilers team in pursuit of a Stanley Cup.
In the meantime, Edmonton focuses on addressing immediate needs and make sure their lineup is playoff-ready and whether if Philp earns the job or the Oilers acquire a veteran, strengthening their fourth line will be very important for a deep playoff run.
Previously on Oilers Central
POLL |
JANVIER 25 | 225 ANSWERS Could Jonathan Toews be the answer for the Edmonton Oilers this season? Do you think the Edmonton Oilers should sign Jonathan Toews? |
Yes | 102 | 45.3 % |
No | 123 | 54.7 % |
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