Edmonton Oilers targeting very well-known NHL veteran to help team's depth issues

The Edmonton Oilers are dealing with some injuries and may need to turn to a very familiar face, Justin Schultz, a former Oiler, after he already rejected a PTO.

The Edmonton Oilers finally snapped a winless streak on Wednesday with a victory over the Boston Bruins, their first this season to date, after losing the initial three games of their homestand. The win, which is sorely needed, could perhaps become the spark to get the team going as the season wears on. But to be competitive and really have a shot at the end of it all to end their Stanley Cup drought, which has been a still-growing 34 years, the Oilers may need some reinforcements to the roster, especially on the blue line. The second pairing in defensive duty is Ty Emberson with Troy Stecher and Darnell Nurse on rotation: A vulnerable area.

Recent reports seem to indicate that the Oilers are exploring possible trades or acquisitions in hopes of strengthening their D-core. Names such as Mark Giordano and Kevin Shattenkirk have been thrown around as targets. However, another veteran name has apparently cropped up as a possible solution, according to Kurt Leavins of the 'Edmonton Journal': Justin Schultz. Familiarity with the organization and his recent performances give him a certain appeal.

Schultz was a familiar face to the fans in Edmonton, having played his first four seasons in the NHL with the Oilers from 2012-2016. After leaving Edmonton, he played for other teams, including two seasons with the Seattle Kraken, where he played 143 games. Now 34, Schultz has shown he has plenty in the tank. What is ironic in this is that Schultz had the chance to rejoin the Oilers earlier this year, but he spurned an offer for a professional tryout. It's almost bizarre because for what was likely a guaranteed contract, Schultz apparently wanted a contract and would not settle for a PTO. The Oilers would have to sign him to a standard contract just like they did back in 2014.

The more trouble the Oilers run into on defense, the more their thinking about Schultz may change. His veteran nature, plus his comfort within the organization, would truly make him a great midseason addition for the team, really to shore up the back end. If other options for the defense do not come through, then maybe the Oilers will get back to Schultz.

The Oilers are going to take a close look at their blue-line deficiencies and a decision on whether to ink Justin Schultz or another veteran presence going forward will be made shortly if the Oilers are to keep the momentum of their recent win and position themselves for a deep run in the playoffs.

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