Report: Oilers land Duncan Keith from the Blackhawks in a trade
Anthony Scultore
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Multiple sources are reporting that the Oilers and Blackhawks are closing in on a trade. According to Frank Seravalli, the Oilers will acquire Duncan Keith for D, Caleb Jones and a mid-round pick.
Duncan Keith to Edmonton almost fell through
Over the weekend the two sides seemed to hit a snag. As they inched toward a deal the Blackhawks refused to retain any salary on Keith. That prompted the Oilers to pull back on the trade package and tell Chicago to take it or leave it.
Based on what’s being reported as part of this deal, it is likely that the Blackhawks accepted the offer without them retaining salary. When the trade is official we will provide further updates.
UPDATE: No salary retained.
Keith asked for the trade
After word got out that Duncan Keith was on the market it was learned he initiated the trade request. “We weren’t looking to move him, but it was initiated by Duncan,” a source told Scott Powers. “He’d like to be closer to his son. He’s getting older, and Duncan didn’t get to see him much last season. We understand that.”
The 37 year-old defenseman wants to be closer to his family in British Columbia. He pegged the Oilers as his preferred destination and it appears he will get his wish.
Edmonton has been looking for help on their blue-line but also a veteran who knows how to win. Keith’s three Cup rings will help teach the Oilers how to get over the hump.
