Could a Familiar Face Solve Edmonton's Goaltending Dilemma?
One of the NHL's most respected insiders has raised an intriguing possibility for addressing the Edmonton Oilers' persistent goaltending challenges. Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, widely regarded as the league's top insider, has speculated that the Oilers might consider bringing back former Edmonton goaltender Laurent Brossoit to bolster their crease.
The Brossoit Connection
The 32-year-old goaltender, who missed the entire previous season due to injuries, is currently working his way back through the Chicago Blackhawks' minor league system. Brossoit hasn't played competitive hockey in two years, but according to Friedman, the netminder's determination to return is noteworthy. "He could have given up because those were some bad injuries, but he wanted to try," Friedman noted, adding that Brossoit could begin a conditioning stint within the week.
Financial considerations make this potential move particularly interesting. Brossoit has one year remaining on his current contract, which carries a $3.3 million cap hit. Any team interested in acquiring him would likely need to negotiate with Chicago to retain some of that salary, potentially involving a draft pick as compensation.
Why Brossoit Makes Sense for Edmonton
Friedman emphasized that while this remains speculation, the potential fit is logical for several reasons. "The thing about him is... he doesn't really cost you anything to go do it, right, aside from a pick," Friedman explained. "It's not a heavy cost like a guy like Tristan Jarry would be, a heavier cost. So I'm wondering if that's a guy who's now on Edmonton's radar."
The insider's speculation suggests that Edmonton may have explored more expensive options like Pittsburgh's Tristan Jarry or St. Louis's Jordan Binnington but found the asking price too steep or encountered other obstacles, such as Binnington's no-trade clause. The relatively low acquisition cost for Brossoit, combined with his proven upside, makes him an attractive alternative.
Brossoit's recent performance history, when healthy, is particularly compelling. In his last two full NHL seasons, he posted an outstanding .927 save percentage and emerged as the Vegas Golden Knights' top goaltender during the 2023 playoffs before injuries sidelined his postseason run.
Following a Proven Pattern
This potential move would continue a pattern established by Oilers general manager Stan Bowman, who previously took a chance on Connor Ingram, another goaltender whose value had decreased due to various issues. While Ingram has struggled somewhat in the AHL with an .871 save percentage through seven games with Bakersfield, the low-risk approach could justify taking a similar chance on Brossoit.
The speculation comes at a crucial time for the Oilers, who continue to seek reliable goaltending behind starter Stuart Skinner. With the team's playoff positioning described as being in "real jeopardy" according to recent reports, exploring all options—including bringing back a familiar face—could provide the stability needed between the pipes.
As Friedman carefully noted, this remains speculation rather than confirmed trade talks. However, when the NHL's top insider floats such possibilities, the hockey world pays attention, recognizing that such speculation often precedes actual movement in today's fast-paced NHL landscape.
