Connor McDavid reacts after Edmonton Oilers acquire Connor Murphy, Jason Dickinson and Colton Dach before NHL trade deadline

The Edmonton Oilers made notable roster changes ahead of the NHL trade deadline, completing deals with the Chicago Blackhawks to add defenseman Connor Murphy and forwards Jason Dickinson and Colton Dach. The transactions are meant to enhance the depth of the roster as the club aims for the NHL playoffs.

In the case of Oilers captain Connor McDavid, the new hires would provide a way to even out the line-ups and minimize some of the more challenging games that the highest calibre of the Edmonton star players are exposed to. A reinforcement of the defensive unit and forward group was an evident need of the franchise towards the last stage of the season.

Connor McDavid said he is familiar with Jason Dickinson’s game after facing him multiple times in NHL matchups and believes the forward will bring valuable qualities to the Oilers.

“It’ll be great. Definitely a guy I’ve played a lot against over the years. A guy that’s always tough to play against. Defends well, he’s a big body that skates well. He’ll help a lot,” McDavid said.

He also provided reasons as to why Dickinson is challenging to handle by the opposing players on the field.

“As I said, he skates well and he’s rangy and he’s kind of just always there. That’s obviously annoying to play against,” he added.

McDavid also expressed confidence in what Connor Murphy and Colton Dach can bring to the team. “Yeah, I’m very happy with the moves. I think all the guys we brought in, all three of them from Chicago there, are good adds,” McDavid said. “Obviously Murphy with his size and defends hard. Same with Dickinson and Dach… he’s got lots of potential. I like all three.”

Meanwhile, McDavid admitted to the emotional component of the trade that took Andrew Mangiapane to Chicago. “It’s always the flip side of it… It’s great to see guys come in. It’s sad to see Mangiapane go, but there’s the human side of it both ways,” he said.