Oilers Linked To Former Hurricanes Free Agent Defenseman

The Edmonton Oilers are inching closer to completing a trade to bolster the right side of their defensive pairings, according to Frank Seravalli , and now a particular name has popped up in the rumor mill linked to the franchise in free agent defenseman Tony DeAngelo.

According to hockey insider Seravalli, DeAngelo has emerged as a potential under-the-radar option in consideration by the Oilers, who are looking to bolster their blue line.

During an appearance on Oilers Now on August 27 , Seravalli highlighted DeAngelo as a name to watch.

“I’ll throw one other name at you that I don’t think has gotten much play internally but I think is a better player than all the names I have mentioned (Justin Schultz, Tyson Barrie, Kevin Shattenkirk) and who’s still unsigned is Tony DeAngelo,” Seravalli said.

DeAngelo, who remains unsigned, could contribute on both offense and defense given his point-producing prowess. Seravalli highlighted that while discussing DeAngelo as a potential addition to the Stanley Cup runner-ups.

“What you are talking about is the potential for a 50-point defenseman on your team, that is still in his 20’s, that is ready, willing and able to play close to league minimum," Seravalli said. "And (he) would absolutely love to be in Edmonton.”

Despite his offensive skills, DeAngelo’s career has been marked by controversy, and his recent level of play has been inconsistent.

Last season, DeAngelo played 31 games, scoring 11 points and averaging 14:20 of ice time per game. That said, 6 of his 11 points came on the power play, which is not a unit he'd probably play in if he joins the Oilers with those roles already filled in Edmonton.

The Oilers could explore both the free-agent market offering someone available a Professional Tryout (PTO) contract (the list of potential targets includes Justin Schultz, Tyson Barrie, and DeAngelo), or the franchise could try to trade for a better player if they don't like the remaining free agents.

Related: Oilers' Leon Draisaitl Issues Deadline To Finalize Extension: Report