Yahoo Sports Oilers Can Fix Big Problem With Waiver Claim
EDMONTON -- The waiver wire has been a busy one this year.
The Edmonton Oilers have utilized it on multiple occasions to date. Kasperi Kapanen and Alec Regula were brought into the fold via waivers. However, they have also lost players on the waiver wire, most notably Raphael Lavoie and Travis Dermott.
Another name is popping up on the wire that the Oilers need to seriously consider: Ty Smith. Although he has not yet reached his full potential as an NHLer, he has a track record of good results.
Ty Smith Has Track Record Of Being Serviceable
Smith is a more than serviceable third-pairing defender. If given an opportunity, he could certainly be more.
He has played in 131 NHL games, averaging 18:25 per game. Smith has recorded 49 points in those games.
Smith's best season to date was his rookie year. He collected 23 points in 48 games while playing 20:01 per game. He spent 70 percent of his time on ice with P.K. Subban or Damon Severson.
The young defender had a 57 Corsi For Percentage with Severson and a 55.5 percent Corsi For Percentage with Subban.
Smith was also utilized on the powerplay, averaging 2:33 of time on ice with the man advantage.
Ty Smith (CAR) on waivers
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) January 11, 2025
Just Scratching The Surface
Despite his current track record, Smith is still scratching the surface of his potential. The defender is only 24 years old and will make $775,000 for the rest of this season.
Smith has only played eight games for the Carolina Hurricanes this year. He has two points and averages 13:40 minutes per game. The young defender also averages 2:39 minutes on the power play.
The only reason not to put in a claim for Smith would be his handedness. As a left-shot defender, he would more than likely get his opportunity on the left side either in the AHL or if one of Darnell Nurse, Mattias Ekholm, or Brett Kulak gets injured. Or, he could play on the right side with another lefty.
Smith would be worth the Oilers' waiver claim. His low cap hit, serviceable numbers, and untapped potential are the best reasons to swing at this underutilized defender.
If I were the Oilers, I'd stay busy working the waiver wire.
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