“I think we struck the right balance this year as far as the number of new players we have and where they play. In particular, I think Walman’s a really big upgrade for our group,” he said. “He’s somebody that we’ve talked about going back to the middle of the year as a big target. [Sharks GM] Mike Grier is probably tired of talking to me about him, because I’ve been told for a long time that he wouldn’t trade him. ‘He’s got another year. I don’t have to trade him,’ but we just kind of stuck with it.
“And then the other day, when we pitched it to him, I think we got his attention and we eventually got it where he came in. So I think that’s a big piece that we’re excited about.”
While the trade was still a surprise to Walman, the excitement he feels over landing in Edmonton overpowers all those other emotions, especially when you consider the price the Oilers paid to acquire him and the opportunity he has in front of him. Not to mention, he still has another year on his contract with a cap hit of $3.4 million that will keep him in Oil Country until the end of the 2025-26 season.
There’s lots to look forward to – both this season and next – for the Toronto product, who’s put up 32 points (six goals) in 50 games this season and 83 points (31 goals) over 252 games with San Jose, Detroit and St. Louis over his six-year NHL career.
“I think obviously, a little bit shocked,” he said. “I don’t think it was really expected, but at the same time, anything can happen. That’s kind of the thing that I’ve learned, and when I found out it was Edmonton, obviously the challenge that they have here and kind of working towards the end goal is something I’ve always wanted to be a part of.
“It’s a little bit of a different situation than what I was in, but I’ve always wanted to play meaningful games at this time.”
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