Nick Zararis breaks down the major $11 million defensive puzzle facing the Edmonton Oilers heading into the upcoming season: who earns the left-side spot on the second pair alongside Connor Murphy?
Nick Zararis breaks down the major $11 million defensive puzzle facing the Edmonton Oilers heading into the upcoming season: who earns the left-side spot on the second pair alongside Connor Murphy? On this episode of Locked On Oilers, we take a deep dive into the underlying metrics, transition profiles, and career trajectories of two unconventional late bloomers: free-agent signee Ryan Shea and veteran blue-liner Jake Walman.
Both defensemen took non-traditional routes through college hockey and extended AHL stints before establishing themselves in the NHL. Shea brings a strong possession and exit profile from his breakout campaign with the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he put up impressive goal-share numbers despite non-elite matchups. Walman offers dynamic high-end transition play, carrying exits, and offensive upside, but questions remain regarding his net-front defense and injury history.
Nick walks through the statistical cases for both players, evaluating how each profile fits next to Connor Murphy's shutdown style and how Edmonton's revamped bottom-six forward group impacts these defensive pairings. Ultimately, contract value and organizational equity give one candidate the early edge to start the season on the second unit
06:17 Evaluating Oilers' risky defense deals
07:43 Discussing Penguins' defensive lineup options
10:58 Comparing Ryan Shea and Jake Wallman
15:53 Penguins' goaltending and team performance
17:46 Ryan Shea's playing style
20:57 Jake Wallman's 2025 performance
25:52 Evaluating late bloomer NHL players
27:32 Analyzing Oilers' Options in Defense
Who Will Win Edmonton’s 2nd Pair Defense Spot? | Ryan Shea vs. Jake Walman
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