The sting of falling short in the Stanley Cup Finals still lingers within the Edmonton Oilers organization, making a fresh start an absolute necessity heading into the upcoming NHL season. While Connor McDavid is reportedly set to stay with the team, a little help from the Boston Bruins wouldn’t hurt at this stage.
At the heart of this story lies a specific position: goaltending. The Kris Knoblauch-led team are reportedly open to strengthening their roster between the pipes, and there’s already a target in sight to address the need.
The one being targeted is young Michael DiPietro, who is currently behind the experienced Jeremy Swayman and Joonas Korpisalo in the Bruins‘ lineup, so a change of direction wouldn’t be seen as a bad option.
The main issue at this point in the offseason lies in how the talented player could make his way to Edmonton. While the Canadian team is looking to avoid a potential trade, claiming him off waivers is another option — though a somewhat riskier one.
Goalie Michael DiPietro #75 of the Vancouver Canucks during the team warm up prior to NHL action against the Calgary Flames on February, 9, 2019 at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
The potential arrival of DiPietro
The ideal scenario of being able to claim Michael DiPietro for free off the waiver wire is something being considered by the front office. However, according to The Athletic’s reporter Allan Mitchell, it’s a risky move due to the team’s low priority during the waiver process.
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That said, the other scenario in which the talented goaltender could become Connor McDavid’s teammate would be through a trade — an option both teams are currently evaluating based on their short-term needs and priorities.
Whatever the final decision may be, if DiPietro does end up landing with the Oilers, he would undoubtedly strengthen a position that needs stability if the team is serious about contending for the title.
Options at a crucial position
The Edmonton Oilers are reportedly looking to shore up their goaltending depth with a move for Michael DiPietro. Currently, the team’s goalie situation is headlined by Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard. While they both saw action in the Oilers’ deep playoff run, there are questions about their consistency.
DiPietro, who is currently with the Boston Bruins organization, has a lot of promise. He was an elite AHL goalie last season and is now ready for an NHL role. For the Oilers, he represents a high-upside, low-cost option. Acquiring him, likely through a trade, would create a strong competition in net and give the Oilers a talented, young goalie who could develop into a top-tier option.
This move would provide insurance and a potential upgrade, transforming the Oilers’ goalie tandem into a much more formidable trio and strengthening the team’s overall depth.
