This, as far as I'm concerned, is a test for the managers of the Edmonton Oilers.  According to TSN, Nick Boynton has been put on re-entry waivers and is now available for a cap hit of 0.75M.  His contract expires at the end of this season so there shouldn't be any issues in terms of his contract status.  With Sheldon Souray out of the lineup until he's traded the Oilers have an open roster spot for a defender.  The two rookies have looked good - Alex Plante especially - but if this team is trying to stem the bleeding, there's no reason not to pick up Boynton who has played reasonably well as a bottom pairing defender in Anaheim.  He's had a pretty even split of offensive and defensive zone faceoffs and has managed the third best Corsi among Ducks' defenders.  He's a right-handed shot and can plays a physical game.  In my opinion, he's quite a bit better than Jason Strudwick and could be in the Oilers line-up on an everyday basis considering the injury to Souray.

On the downside, I remember him once headbutting Zack Stortini in the nose in a game at Rexall Place.  That could be a bit awkward.  Also, it would make the team better.  And I guess management is hoping to lose as many games as we can between now and the end of the season. At least, that's the most plausible conclusion if Steve Tambellini decides Boynton isn't worth claiming.