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The Edmonton Oilers need help on defense, that much is clear. The Oilers currently have a handful a second-pairing types, a young third-pairing guy, a seventh defenseman and three AHL-level defensemen on the roster. In that group, only two of them are capable of regularly carrying the puck out of the zone or consistently passing to the forwards to set them up for zone entries. The forwards are under fire for a number of things, but the constant support they must offer to the defense on break-outs is eating into their effectiveness.
The Oilers aren't in a position to contend for a playoff spot without at least one significant upgrade on defense, probably two. Denis Grebeshkov might be coming back next season and he'll be a significant addition, but July is too late too take advantage of the 2013 opportunity.
With that in mind, I took a look at the teams either already out of the playoff picture or who will fall out soon in order to find defensemen available via trade. Below are the best targets for the Oilers.
Sekera is a top-of-the-line defender on a sweetheart deal and an ideal fit for Edmonton. He can move the puck on his own and play in all situations. Sekera could jump into the top pairing without a hiccup.
Value: Top pairing, tough minutes defender with the ability to kill penalties.
Plays like: Roman Polak with funk.
Likely Cost: Magnus Paajarvi
Tyutin is an outstanding defender stuck in a tough situation. He's capable of playing all situations and tough minutes. But he's 29 and has five more years left on his deal at $4.5 million per year. Without the contract he's an idea target, with the contract and the cost, he's the least likely to move to Edmonton.
Value: Top pairing, tough minutes defender with the ability to kill penalties.
Plays like: Tom Gilbert
Likely Cost: First round pick plus a roster player or top prospect, or a top young player. 1st round pick plus Teemu Hartikainen or 1st round pick plus Martin Marincin or Magnus Paajarvi.
Visnovsky came back from the KHL to Long Island knowing that playoff hockey wasn't a guarantee. In fact, even with John Tavares on a tear, the Islanders aren't likely to compete for a playoff spot this season. Visnovsky will be at the top of many wish lists for his ability to play with any partner and in any situation. Injuries could come into play.
Value: Slick defender who can play all situations and drive play.
Plays like: Lubo, the one and only.
Likely Cost: At least a second-round pick, but probably more considering the market. 1st round pick
Weaver is an ageless wonder. He's too small, too slow and too old, but he keeps playing like a man six inches taller, 40 pounds heavier and 10 years younger. He's a great defender who isn't reliant on a partner to move the puck. He's an excellent penalty killer and extremely reliable. Injuries aren't a factor.
Value: Defensive defenseman who can shut down top opponents and and kill penalties on a high level.
Plays like: Rob Scuderi
Likely Cost: It doesn't seem possible, but if Weaver is available, teams are going to line up to get him. He's incredibly affordable, which means he's an ideal asset as the cap drops. He could go for he same or more than Lubo. 2nd Round pick