An eighth overall pick from the Oilers on the trade market? Kent Hughes and the Montreal Canadiens might be interested in Philip Broberg

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Elias Edmonson
August 30, 2023 (6:40 PM)

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Since being selected in the first round by the Edmonton Oilers in the 2019 NHL Draft, it can't be said that the career of young defenseman Philip Broberg has really taken off.

Limited to 62 NHL games, the Swedish defenseman has only collected the 11 points, including two goals, and the Oilers organization is questioning what it will do with its young prospect.

With the arrival of Mattias Ekholm, the emergence of Evan Bouchard, and the fact that seven team defensemen are under contract for 2023-2024, the Oilers' defense looks pretty full. As reported by Marqueur.com, the days of the 8th overall pick of the 2019 draft might be numbered in Edmonton.

In a recent article on The Athletic, analyst Allan Mitchell stated that the Oilers should be in buying mode next season, and Broberg might be one of the promising Oilers' prospects to be let go.

"Broberg's size, speed, and reach give him a tremendous advantage over defensemen without these skills. A team less focused on the upcoming season and more on the future would find Broberg an attractive trade candidate." - Allan Mitchell

In short, the Oilers' defenseman could be a prime target for a team looking for promising young defensemen. Given that Broberg is only 22 years old, he still has some market value.

Would the Canadiens be interested in his services?

It's clear that Broberg would be an excellent acquisition for Kent Hughes, but the needs of the Canadiens on defense must also be considered. With all the quality young defensemen like Guhle, Xhekaj, Harris, Barron, and not to forget Mailloux, Hutson, and Reinbacher, it would be surprising if the Canadiens' leadership is interested in the young Swedish defenseman.

That said, Broberg might be in high demand by the trade deadline, but Ken Holland will need to ensure he finds the right dance partner for a potential trade.