On hold: Trade that would send forward Smyth to Oilers still not official
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}ST. PAUL, Minn. - Oilers general manager Steve Tambellini said that a trade that would see veteran forward Ryan Smyth return to Edmonton has not yet been completed.
Smyth's agent, Don Meehan, confirmed Friday night that the Los Angeles Kings forward formally waived his no-trade clause to rejoin the Oilers. It was not immediately clear what was holding up the deal.
"I wish I could give you something new right now," Tambellini said Saturday at the NHL draft. "But I honestly don't have anything."
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The Kings were expected to get forward Gilbert Brule and a fourth-round draft pick in return for Smyth.
Reports indicated the Kings have concerns over Brule's health. The 24-year-old centre missed half of last season with intestinal problems, a sprained ankle and a concussion.
Smyth had 23 goals and 24 assists in 82 games last season with Los Angeles. He started his NHL career with the Oilers in 1994-'95 and spent over a decade with the team before being dealt to the New York Islanders.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Smyth has over 760 points (355-405) in 1,069 career regular-season games. He also has 59 points (28-31) in 93 career playoff games.
Brule had nine points (7-2) in 41 games last season.