Insider Reveals That A Trade Between the Oilers and the Canadiens For Goaltender Jake Allen Nearly Happened

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Dawson McKenzie
January 20, 2024 (7:46 PM)

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This NHL insider just revealed that the Montreal Canadiens nearly sent Jake Allen to the Edmonton Oilers, but it fell through for this interesting reason.

Elliotte Friedman Reveals that This Trade Nearly Happened Between the Oilers and the Canadiens

The Edmonton Oilers were in serious goaltending troubles earlier this season, and it was no question that they were looking for a goaltender after sending Jack Campbell down to the minors. It was well-reported that the Oilers were canvassing the goalie market.

Now, Elliotte Friedman has revealed that the Oilers nearly acquired Jake Allen from the Montreal Canadiens in a trade.

"I really do think there was a time this year that I thought Jake Allen was gonna be in Edmonton," revealed Friedman on the 32 Thoughts podcast. "Now I'm not convinced that's going to happen."

Friedman goes on to reveal that he thinks the deal fell though because of the cost. At the time, it was clear the Oilers were desperate. Now, though, they can afford to wait. Friedman thinks that the Canadiens were asking a high price in the order of a draft pick, and even more to retain some of Allen's salary.

"I think what's happened there is that he's got a price that he's set, I think it's a draft pick," said Friedman.

"There's the trade price and then there's the retention price," admitted Friedman. "And the price gets higher if there's retention."

Oilers Fans Happy That They Didn't Panic During Goaltending Dibacle

Oilers fans can actually be happy that they didn't panic buy a goaltender during their struggles at the beginning of the year. While they have yet to see Jack Campbell return to his former self, Stuart Skinner has been able to perform well as the number one in Edmonton and has helped the team crawl back up the standings in historic fashion.

We will see if Edmonton still thinks a goaltender is a priority as the deadline comes up in March.

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