The Oilers' improbable run to the Stanley Cup finals may ultimately end with the trade of one of the team's biggest contributors: Chris Pronger.
According to Sportsnet sources, Pronger wants out.
The defenceman is believed to have some personal issues that may be alleviated by a move.
Neither the Oilers nor the Pronger camp will comment on the matter with respect to the hulking defenceman's privacy. However, it is believed Pronger made his position clear with Edmonton's management before departing for a vacation Friday morning.
Word of his unrest surfaced prior to the playoffs, and with it the understanding that trade discussions between Pronger and Kevin Lowe had taken place during the season.
However, the Oilers run to Game 7 of the Stanley Cup final overshadowed Pronger's personal battles and it was hoped Edmonton's post-season success would help soothe his geographic battles.
Unfortunately, that doesn't appear to be the case and the topic was raised earlier this week.
"He wants out," a source close to the situation told Sportsnet.
Aw, gee, that's too bad. I mean, really, too bad.
