The Edmonton Oilers have made a significant trade, acquiring offensive defenseman Jake Walman from the San Jose Sharks. This move addresses their desperate need for both an impact defenseman and increased scoring. Walman's offensive skill set, particularly his puck-moving abilities and big point shot, is expected to thrive in a role that eases the load on his responsibilities. His impressive performances against tough competition suggest he could further elevate the Oilers' gameplay alongside stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, especially in a more supportive role.
While most expected the Oilers to go after a shutdown defenseman, Walman's offense-heavy game is a perfect fit in Edmonton. The team defense is fine — twelfth in the league in expected goals allowed — but they've struggled getting the puck out of their own zone and onto the sticks of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
In Edmonton, all the pressure's off. Walman won't have to play 24 minutes a night or shut down the opposing team's best players. Instead, he can either play next to Darnell Nurse on the second pair ... or crush third-pair minutes next to Ty Emberson on the third pair.
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