The top ranked trade asset (Brock Nelson of the New York Islanders) has above-average speed but would require a handsome package to acquire. The Oilers are more likely to acquire a player who would cost fewer assets and who owns a lower contract number.

The Edmonton Oilers are an all-around elite team this season, with the exception of still average goaltending. Yet, Oilers insiders still insist that the team can only be improved through a defence trade.

A goalie? A top defenceman? A winger? A centre? Two credible NHL insiders, former GMs Brian Lawton and Craig MacTavish, agree that the one area where the Oilers most have to pick up their play is on defence.

The Oilers have hit their stride after a bumpy start, but there's still room to add. What's on the list beyond defensive depth?

The NHL trade deadline is just over three weeks away, and the Edmonton Oilers have some decisions to make. They head into the two-week break with a record of 34-17-4 for 72 points, tied with the Vegas Golden Knights for the Pacific Division lead.