Edmonton Oilers reportedly targeting another bandaid solution to fix goalie problem
The Columbus Blue Jackets find themselves sitting in the bottom end of the NHL standings, a position the franchise has been familiar with the last few seasons. All this losing the has opened the door for starting goalie Elvis Merzlikins to wonder what it would be like to wear another teams jersey.
The former third round pick has been rebounding nicely from worst season of his career as he struggled to be consistent with a 7-18-2 record .873 save percentage and ugly 4.23 GAA. In 17 games this season his numbers have improved to a .907 save percentage and 3.11 GAA.
Insider Frank Seravalli was on 630 CHED discussing the Merzlikins situation revealing that the 29 year old would be open to a change of scenery.
Bob also said players on the Oilers have a lot of "Respect" for Elvis. Noted his play in the league and world championships.
There are reports that scouts from the Edmonton OIlers were recently spotted watching the Blue Jackets play the Montreal Canadiens on Wednesday night.
According to The Athletics' Aaron Portzline, this was the second straight time the Oilers had scouts watching the Blue Jackets.
To further drive a link between Columbus and Edmonton. Merzlikins agent is Gerry Johansson who is Edmonton based.
The Latvian native is signed until the end of the 2026-27 season, carrying a cap hit of $5.4M. With Edmonton tight against the cap, Columbus would need to take a contract back or retain some salary. The Oilers own their first round picks in the next three drafts and have other draft capital at their disposal to entice Columbus.
Edmonton could really use the upgrade in net to save their season while Columbus look destined for another draft lottery finish.
| POLL | ||
Would you like to see Edmonton add Elvis Merzlikins? | ||
| Yes, he would solve their problems | 120 | 44 % |
| No, better fits out there | 153 | 56 % |
| List of polls | ||
