The deal comes as a surprise, considering the Oilers need as many forwards and offensive pieces as possible. However, after struggling this past season and playing an inconsistent game, Pouliot was bound to be bought out sooner rather than later.
The Canadian winger finished with just six goals and 14 points through 67 games this year and was a minus-5. Pouliot’s poor campaign came a year after he finished with 34 points in 55 games. With this massive decline in talent, Pouliot’s days appeared number, especially when he would be a healthy scratch on some nights.