The twitter-world is apparently abuzz with a rumour that Jeff Carter has asked for a trade out of Columbus.  Why would anyone want to leave Columbus?  Oh yeah, they suck. 

So, if Carter really is on the market, can and should the Oilers put together a package and make a play for him?

My view is, they certainly should try.  A 1-2 punch of Carter and RNH down the middle is better than RNH-Horcoff, RNH-Gagner or RNH – Pitlick.  With that simple fact, the Oilers should at least look at the possibility.

The problem is, what do the Oilers have that would make it worth Columbus’ while to make the trade?  Columbus would need a centre to replace Carter in the top 6, plus they need defensive help and scoring help. 

The Oilers are not awash in defensemen these days.  They certainly could offer up Peckham under the “needs a change of scenery” banner.  Or maybe Plante or Teubert, but that’s about it.

Does Gagner, Peckham/Tuebert and another forward get you Carter? Does Gagner, Peckham and the Oilers 2012 1st round pick do it?  Does Hemsky and Gagner do it, under the argument that you don’t really need the big name centre if you have Hemsky feeding Nash?

I don’t know.  If I could deal Hemsky, Gagner, Peckham and a 2012 second round pick for Carter I would do it.

New forward lines:

Hall – RNH – Eberle

Smyth – Horcoff – Jones

MPS – Carter - Hartikainen  

Belanger – Lander – Petrell

If that isn’t an improvement, I don’t know what is.

What say you?