Edmonton Oilers may move on from former first-round pick this summer

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Cooper Godin
April 28, 2023 (2:23 PM)

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While the Edmonton Oilers have their attention solely on their first round series against the Los Angeles Kings, where they hold a three games to two lead, rumours are beginning to swirl off the ice regarding one of their younger forwards.

Allan Mitchell of The Athletic believes that the Edmonton Oilers could be gearing up to move former first-round pick Kailer Yamamoto this summer for a few reasons including his struggles and that the 24-year-old would need to sign a much smaller contract than he currently has if he wants to remain with the organization.

In his most recent Trade Targets article, DailyFaceoff's Frank Seravalli has Yamamoto listed at number 16 and here's why:

"Just about every part of this season has been a little bit «off» for Yamamoto. He hasn't seemed quite right. He's been dealing with a vestibular system issue, symptoms not all that different than a concussion, for a large chunk of the year, which also kept him out of the lineup in the early part of 2023. When he's been healthy, Yamamoto can be an impact contributor. He collected 20 goals last season. It's just that the Oilers will have other players to pay (see: Evan Bouchard) and limited room to make deals, making him potentially expendable." Seravalli said.

Yamamoto, a native of Spokane (Washington) appeared in 58 games during hte regular season for the Oilers, putting up 25 points (ten goals, 15 assists), 24 penalty minutes and was a plus-12. So far during the Stanley Cup Playoffs, he has no points. Yamamoto has one more year on his contract with an AAV of $3.1 million and will become a restricted free agent in July 2024.

Source: DailyFaceoff