The Edmonton Oilers are considering their options, including the possibility of making a trade, in order to free up cap space for the upcoming season. Trading defenseman Cody Ceci has come up as one of the more noteworthy options among the possible answers. Although his underlying numbers have made Ceci a divisive figure, he is still a productive and well-liked player in the Oilers’ locker room.

Bob Stauffer, the host of OilersNow on 630 CHED and an Oilers color analyst, recently brought up the prospect of a Ceci trade to clear about $3.5 million in contract space. With one year left on his $3.25 million contract, Ceci’s position on the team’s blue line has changed in tandem with his inconsistent play. Stauffer points out:

I also don’t believe at this time there being anything imminent regarding something like the Edmonton Oilers’ — and he’s panned out to be a pretty effective player for the team — Cody Ceci as well, but Edmonton is going to have to create about three and a half million dollars in cap space.

For the previous two seasons, Ceci’s play has been inconsistent. The Oilers have barely outscored opponents when Darnell Nurse is partnered with him, but they have suffered more severely in the playoffs, losing 29-19 when Ceci is on the ice.

Ceci Is Still Better Than Many of the Alternatives

Even with these figures, Ceci’s contributions are too great to be disregarded. He is thought to be a reliable player who would do well in a supporting role. Despite his inconsistent performance, he has also been a reliable choice. It’s important to keep in mind that a possible deal would create a space on the Oilers’ blue line to the right. Troy Stecher, Josh Brown, and Connor Carrick are now eligible to play in the NHL next season after the Oilers signed them to reasonable deals. Do they therefore represent a better choice than Ceci? No, it most likely doesn’t.

The Oilers will unavoidably need to find a Ceci replacement if they move Ceci. Something at the forward position probably has to give if they decide to upgrade. Having already traded Ryan McLeod to the Buffalo Sabres, the Oilers would prefer to preserve their depth in that area.

Depending on the extent of his hip injury and sports hernia, forward Evander Kane may also be placed on long-term injured reserve by the Oilers. Given that Kane has a no-trade clause that is in force until shortly before the NHL trade deadline, trading him is probably not a possibility.

The Oilers will soon decide on Cody Ceci’s future while they work through their cap dilemma. Edmonton will probably act if they can find a solution that addresses their cap problems and bridges the gap left by his departure. Ceci will undoubtedly be on the Oilers’ opening night roster if not.