More information is surfacing in relation to the Darnell Nurse trade news out of Edmonton. After submitting a three- to five-team list, reports suggest that some of those teams, while not confirmed, are coming out. Among them, speculation is that the Pittsburgh Penguins, Philadelphia Flyers and a team out west are in the mix.
The Western Conference team is said to be the only team Nurse has on his list. That’s the Los Angeles Kings.
Elliotte Friedman reported, “I have heard the preference is East, and not likely to be Canada.” That would make the link to Pittsburgh and Philadelphia logical. He’s got family connections in Philly, and the Flyers are a team where his style of game might fit well. They’re on the way up, and the spotlight is bright, but not nearly as bright as in Edmonton. “I believe the Flyers have interest. I’ve heard enough around the league to think they’re seriously considering it, and Philadelphia is a destination Nurse would be open to.”
Interestingly, this report removes a team like the San Jose Sharks from contention. They were linked as a strong possible fit, given their lack of serviceable defensemen under contract.
What About the Kings for Nurse?
The Los Angeles Kings are being linked because of Nurse’s connection to GM Ken Holland. It was Holland who gave Nurse his big contract. The Kings are looking to make bigger moves and Holland isn’t afraid to bring in ex-Oilers.
Edmonton reporter Jim Matheson wrote on social media, “Clearly Ken Holland will be hot to trot to get Nurse for his weak back-end, but unless Oilers get forward Alex Laferrière back, that should be a non-starter for Edm. If trading Nurse, string way forward for Oilers is to sign Kulak as left D.” When called out for his take that Laferrière be the return, Matheson responded, “Holland would want Nurse more than any other GM if LA on Nurse’s trade list. Yes, Laferrière may be reach but, again, Kings D is weak.”
Alex Laferrière is a 20-goal winger who has size and skill. He would be a solid get for Edmonton and arguably an overpayment by the Kings. Salary retention might be part of the trade if this were even remotely on the map. He’s signed to a $4.1 million per-season deal for the next two seasons. He ranked fifth on the Kings in short-handed time on ice and led the team in hits with 255.
Friedman adds there is legitimate interest around the league, and believes a hockey trade will ultimately get done. Does that mean the Kings would give up Alex Laferrière in a Darnell Nurse trade? It would be a home run for Edmonton.
Next: What Could the Oilers Get in Return for Darnell Nurse?
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