It’s no secret that, both on and off the ice, the Arizona Coyotes are currently in poor shape. The Oilers’ 6-3 defeat on Monday strengthened the argument for deadline sellers. Naturally, the Coyotes’ most recent defeat marked their eleventh consecutive loss, further propelling them toward the draft lottery. In the long term, the club would probably be better off dropping in the standings at this point in the season, and general manager Bill Armstrong will have some big choices to make in the upcoming weeks. They are in need of a change.
In the past, Armstrong has not shied away from moving important roster components right before the deadline (Shayne Gostisbehere in 2023, for example). Online, Coyotes supporters have been of the opinion that this awful run of results is the ideal excuse to add to the team’s already robust pool of prospects and secure further draft resources. With seven picks in the first three rounds of this season, the Coyotes will have an abundance of draft capital over the next few years.
How Might the Oilers Affect Arizona’s Future?
Even though the Oilers are a fantastic team and will undoubtedly advance to the postseason, their depth chart still has some holes in it. There have been speculations of a Chris Tanev deal from Calgary because some people think Edmonton would benefit from getting a reliable second-pair defenseman. But if Tanev’s price tag becomes too much for Oilers general manager Ken Holland, the focus might go back to a well-known ally in the Arizona Coyotes.
These two have previously collaborated on deals, like as the draft day deal that sent Zack Kassian into the desert. Nick Bjugstad was acquired by Edmonton at the previous deadline in order to add depth to the team, but he later signed a free agent contract with the Coyotes. Given the current circumstances of both teams, it makes sense for both to trade Matt Dumba to Edmonton.
Despite his low point total of eight in 50 games this season, Dumba, a 29-year-old defenseman, isn’t exactly a prolific scorer. Dumba is an excellent asset to any club hoping to make the playoffs because of his strength. McDavid and Draisaitl are more than capable of scoring more points for Edmonton. They require a formidable opponent on the ice and someone who can guard their gifted players. It’s difficult to predict what a transaction with a younger player or a later draft pick might entail with Edmonton. The salary cap may make matters more difficult, but the Coyotes are willing to keep 50% of Dumba’s one-year, $3.9 million contract if the appropriate offer comes along.
