Report: Oilers, Maroon trying to work out extension before trade deadline

The Edmonton Oilers find themselves in an unforeseen position heading into this year's trade deadline: as sellers. Although their season began with Stanley Cup expectations, the Oilers currently sit 11 points outside the playoff cut line in the West, and have some decisions to make ahead of Feb. 26.

One of Edmonton's most valuable yet expendable assets is Patrick Maroon, as the rugged winger can chip in with some offense and carries only a $1.5-million expiring contract. However, Oilers brass is exploring the possibility of an extension that fits in their books before pulling the trigger on a potential deal, reports Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic.

LeBrun adds the Oilers and Maroon's agent spoke briefly during All-Star weekend, and talks between the two sides could escalate this week.

Maroon scored a career-high 27 goals for the Oilers last season, and has followed up with 13 tallies in 49 games in 2017-18.