Fans Rip Hypothetical Oilers–Red Wings Blockbuster Proposal

A common theme in the replies was frustration over what readers see as unrealistic, click-driven “proposed trades” during the summer news lull. “These posts are all over the place these days. They make little sense for either team and seem to be complete fantasies invented by bored ‘writers,’” one commenter said. Another called the scenario “downright comical.”

Some questioned the logic of the Oilers having “deep defensive depth” to part with Ekholm, while others dismissed DeBrincat as a poor stylistic fit for playoff hockey. “Aside from the fact he is tiny, DeBrincat brings zero physicality and little playoff experience,” one fan wrote.

While the idea was never presented as an actual rumor, it’s clear the gap between hypothetical trade talk and fan buy-in can be wide — especially when the pieces involved are key players for both sides.

** Author’s Take:

This is not a trade that makes sense for the Oilers. While DeBrincat is a goal-scorer and potentially the type of winger the Oilers would have loved last season, he’s a $7.875 million cap hit with a modified no-trade clause. There’s no way of knowing if he’s remotely interested in leaving the Red Wings.

At the same time, the Oilers have been ranked as a team with one of the NHL’s better defenses. Moving Ekholm from it severely weakens their defense. Moving Beau Akey also takes away one of the team’s better blue line prospects. Edmonton hurts their blue line in the future. This doesn’t even take into account the two additional draft picks the writer throws in.

If DeBrincat were a rental at the deadline with an expiring contract, that would be one thing. The cost would be lower, and the Oilers wouldn’t have to commit big money when they have other salary cap concerns. But, you can’t deplete your blue line, robbing Peter to pay Paul.