First off, Kris Russell is expected to take over for Sekera on the left side of the second pairing. Because he usually plays on his off-hand as the second-pairing right-hand defender, this leaves an open spot on the second-pairing right-hand side. While Matthew Benning played exceptional hockey in his rookie campaign, showcasing puck-moving prowess and solid defence, can he move to the top-four to start his sophomore year? After him, Eric Gryba would come next when it comes to filling that spot on the right side.
With that being said, and the Oilers’ dilemma to start the year, would it be wise to sign another blueliner?