Rangers and other teams expected to circle back on Puljujarvi today
Jesse Puljujarvi is happy and producing playing in Finland with 24 points in 25 games. While in Edmonton he became disgruntled since being drafted and requested a trade this summer. Now we are just hours away from him playing out the year in Finland.
5PM Deadline
The RFA must sign a deal at the 5PM deadline today or he will be ineligible to play in the NHL this season. Reports out of Finland is that his intent is to play out the year there regardless of a deal. That will hamper the Oilers in getting what they are a looking for, which is way too much. It is believed that Ken Holland wants a forward and a high draft pick, likely a 1st rounder. Edmonton can still trade his rights past today with the trade deadline and draft as their next best opportunities. Come July 1st he still remains a RFA with Oilers holding his rights.
Teams Lurking
When it comes to the giant sized skilled forward, there is interest. As many as 5 teams have circled back in the last week to check in, including the Rangers. Reports indicate that the two sides were close to a deal before it fell apart about a week ago.
Now with the deadline looming, you can expect the Rangers and at least 2 other teams to see if Holland will stick to his statement that he doesn’t feel the need to do anything. The Rangers will see if the demand for a high draft pick is gone which is likely why the deal broke down. If the Rangers are able to execute a trade, you can be sure that they are aware they can reach a deal with Puljujarvi and have him signed and on the 3rd line next week. What remains to be seen is if Lias Andersson is indeed the trade chip I’ve heard awhile ago. By the way, he was sent down to Hartford around the same time the deal fell apart. Coincidence?
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