The Edmonton Oilers made a significant move in their roster plans by placing 30-year-old veteran defenseman Josh Brown on waivers after his request to leave the team, citing personal reasons. Brown, who was signed by the Oilers in the offseason, struggled to find his form during training camp and preseason, leading to his demotion to the American Hockey League (AHL).
As the Oilers gear up for a push toward the Stanley Cup after falling short in a dramatic Game 7 loss to the Florida Panthers last season, their offseason additions aimed to strengthen their depth, both offensively and defensively. While the signing of forwards like Jeff Skinner and Viktor Arvidsson boosted their forward lines, Brown was brought in on a three-year, $1 million annual contract to shore up their defense. However, after a disappointing 2023-24 season with the Arizona Coyotes, Brown’s ability to contribute effectively was in doubt.
Despite hopes that Brown could prove himself in training camp, his performance fell short. Defensively, he struggled with decision-making and had little impact offensively. Although his size was an attractive asset after the departure of Vincent Desharnais to the Vancouver Canucks, Brown was outshined by fellow defensemen Troy Stecher and Travis Dermott, both of whom earned spots over him on the Oilers’ blue line.
Right Decision to Waive Brown, Oilers Seek Depth
While Brown’s AHL assignment keeps him in the system as a backup option, it’s clear the Oilers are looking for more reliable depth. With aspirations of a deep playoff run and another shot at the Stanley Cup, the team will likely seek an external defensive upgrade as the season progresses. Though Brown’s size and physical presence offer some advantages, his lackluster performance makes him a liability rather than an asset for a team with championship ambitions.
The Oilers may look to make a move at the 2025 Trade Deadline to strengthen their defense further. Players like Toronto Maple Leafs’ Timothy Liljegren have been floated as potential options for bolstering the depth in Edmonton’s defensive lineup. For now, Dermott, who earned a contract after a strong preseason showing on a professional tryout (PTO), seems to be the preferred depth option over Brown.
Though the decision to part ways with Brown was the right one, his NHL journey may not be over yet. If he can regain his confidence and form with the Bakersfield Condors, Brown could get another shot at returning to the Oilers or another NHL team. However, as the Oilers pursue their sixth Stanley Cup in franchise history, it’s clear that Brown is not in their immediate plans.
As the season unfolds, stay tuned for further updates on the Oilers and other teams from The Hockey Writers, your trusted source for NHL news.
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