The next season he was in the AHL for the most part, beginning an impressive run of ppg’s in the highest minor league. Starting in 78-79, his AHL ppg’s were 1.18, 1.2, 1.45, 1.58(CHL), 1.525, 1.36 and then he went to Germany.

When we look at the current edition of the Oklahoma City Barons it’s nice to see players with a wide range of skills. A guy like Teemu Hartikainen has size, skill and grit; it’s been a helluva long time since a 20-year old Oiler prospect picked in the 6th round had a pro debut like this guy’s 10-11 season.

He enjoyed a better AHL season than Kyle Brodziak (who in fairness played for a horrible AHL team as a rookie); he had a better rookie season than Jason Chimera did in the AHL; in fact, Hartikainen’s rookie numbers are on par with those posted by Matt Lombardi a decade ago. I’m not saying the Finn will be a top 6 forward, but it seems like forever since the Oilers were gifted with a useful forward with size via the minor leagues.

And he’s just one of many quality prospects moving through the system. What’s the difference? Coaching is part of it, I’d guess. The organization has added some real AHL veterans and that’s helped too, and of course the drafting seems to be better (or luckier).

Either way, there’s something happening in OKC and the Edmonton Oilers are going to benefit in a big way. It’s been a long time.
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Nation Radio hits the air at noon today. You can email questions to nationradio@theteam1260.com and I’d like to thank you for all the comments and questions. Among the guests scheduled for today are former Oiler Cam Connor, Jonathan Willis, Jason Gregor and Kent Wilson of Flames Nation. Hope you tune in.