Careers change in NHL preseason, some men land in the world’s best league because they are able to grind the flaws out of their game, train themselves to be disciplined in all areas, and do enough to get noticed in a good way.
How did Dan Currie miss but Alex Henry land? I don’t know. I just watch, cheer for the ones I like and we’re on to the next. It happens every fall, and it is captivating.
There are times when preseason showcases a player who has not yet landed as an NHL regular, but shows enormous ability during the early games before the regular season. It’s a signal for fans, and indication that the depth chart that rolls around in their mind all day is about to get an adjustment.
Ladies and gentlemen, Evan Bouchard is electric.
NEW for @TheAthleticNHL What Connor McDavid’s Oilers history tells us to expect from line chemistry with Zach Hyman. Click on link for 50 percent off subscription! https://t.co/qMChZLzlbf
Lowetide: What should Oilers expect from Duncan Keith in his first season?
Jonathan Willis: Tyler Benson, Devin Shore and the 4-year difference between a prospect and a has-been
Lowetide: How much playing time will Evan Bouchard get with the Oilers this coming season?
Jonathan Willis: A resurgent Zack Kassian could be an important part of the Oilers’ scoring
NOTES ON A SCANDAL
Stuart Skinner had a good game, a couple of solid saves among his eight stops.
Ilya Konovalov stopped all seven shots, including the most difficult Flames chance of the evening late in the proceedings. Two good goalies in waiting? What the hell is going on out here?
Koekkoek-Bouchard were never in danger during 12:30 at five on five. Shots were 9-4, goals 2-0 and the pucks were landing tape to tape every few seconds. What a display! Bouchard is so damn good. He had six shots on goal, ran the power play and put in 1:13 on the PK. Koekkoek did good work too in a support role. The pairing has earned another game. Bouchard showed calm feet on the PK, walked the puck along the Calgary blue like he’s been there all his life, passed with a aplomb and took dozens of shots at net on the power play. The biggest upset of the net? He didn’t get a point. Fan-TASTIC evening for the young blue.
Broberg-Berglund played 15:37 at five on five, shots were 6-3 and no goals were scored. Broberg played well in the offensive zone, making good decisions and sending the puck at the net (credited with just two on net). He spent over four minutes on the penalty kill, but had two giveaways and got rocked by Lucic early. He rushed the puck with authority but chances weren’t there, that should come. Let a Calgary winger get past him late but did disrupt the lane enough to turn a ridiculous chance into merely a good one. Berglund was top drawer, and that’s the highest grade this blog gives. He made great decisions all over the ice, passes hitting tape, shots getting through, anticipating plays, covering for Broberg as required.
Lagesson-Kemp played 13:48, going 13-4 shots and 1-0 goals. Lagesson had a couple of wobbles, but other than that he was solid. Kemp was the revelation on this pair, he assisted on the first goal with a creative pass (that’s code for I have no idea how it got there), played a physical style and was involved all game. Stood up the forwards, made small effective passes, looked comfortable at this level. The RH side of the Oilers defensive depth chart doesn’t have a lot of names, but they are all good.
Hamblin-Cracknell-Lavoie played 11:22, 6-2 shots and no goals. Hamblin scored the winning goal, using his speed, skill and reaction to make it happen. Cracknell had a great chance, and Lavoie made some solid passes plus had a couple of looks. On a night when every Oilers player delivered at least one good thing, this line would be easy to overlook. They played well.
Benson-McLeod-Marody played 9:34 together, going 8-5 and delivering a couple of strong chances. Benson had one HDSC (how in hell did he not bury that?), McLeod five (he was on the power play) and could have had two, and Marody delivered no HDSC solo but played the role of subtle passer. Being quietly excellent is not a ticket to the NHL, but he earned another game and has scoring skill. This line had the puck going in the right direction and each man delivered something he can build on. McLeod drew a penalty.
Sceviour-Ryan-Bourgault were a revelation in 9:19, going 8-1 shots with a goal at five on five. Sceviour had two assists, Ryan was 1-1-2 and Bourgault scored a gorgeous goal and picked up an assist. Bourgault showed good speed, battle and won pucks and passed the puck very well. An impressive debut.
Perlini-Shore-Turris played 9:09, going 6-1 shots and 1-0 goals. I’ll pick this line as being the best one on the night in a photo finish. Perlini did more than any bubble players (1-0-1, six HDSC) to impress on the evening. He is big, fast and physical, and got noticed consistently. That’s a key for this player. Shore made Milan Lucic very angry, Turris had a nice chance to score at the end of the first period but wasn’t as dangerous as the other right-wingers.
Q AND A
Who was Edmonton’s best player? Evan Bouchard, no question. He played well in all zones, with and without the puck. I noticed he was more aggressive on the blue line, shooting more, taking control. It will be important for him to continue that clarity when playing with the Oilers veterans.
Who helped his cause the most among the bubble people? Already mentioned Perlini and man his speed is going to be tough to send away. A fourth line of Perlini-McLeod-Kassian would be fleet of foot and dangerous. Perlini’s flaws were not apparent on this night, that’s why you play him several times in the next two weeks. Players do grind out their flaws, Edmonton may have found a real player.
Who earned another game? Everyone. I wouldn’t even try to make a case for any Oilers player last night to be sent away this morning. Even a junior like Bourgault, who could be sent down today, earned another game.
Did anyone play themselves out of another game? No. I really just answered that question.
Well, I made a list and that was the next question. A good guest would give an answer. Let’s move on.
How many players will not be in Edmonton or Bakersfield opening night? Sceviour could be in another NHL town, the loser of the Benson-Perlini battle could be lost on waivers, Bourgault will be in the QMJHL.
What about Turris and Shore? They’re in the battle and it’s possible they are waived, but in my opinion these two men would be less likely to be plucked off waivers. Could be wrong, but that’s my take.
Name the player with the most potential who will not make the NHL team? Broberg, although Bourgault impresses me quite a bit.
Name the No. 1 priority for Woodcroft and Manson? Coach up Broberg. He was the talk of bubble camp in August of 2020, but he looked a little tentative in tight spots last night. Berglund sent him a couple of grenades, and the ref got in the way (and Lucic hammered Broberg because of it), but you’d like that puck to be on its way despite the degree of difficulty in the original transaction. He also made a dandy play late to extract the puck along the wall, but accidentally sent the puck into the slot and high danger. This isn’t perilous stuff, probably lacking some confidence, but we know Manson has had really good success with defensemen. I expect a few months, or a year down in Bakersfield will benefit this player tremendously.
Who surprised you with their play? Kemp. I didn’t expect him to touch the puck as much, or the results to be as successful. I’m starting to think this young man has NHL quality. Early days, but I also liked him in Bakersfield and his junior resume was impressive.
Who played well but didn’t have a dynamic quality? Marody. I wrote an article recently detailing my belief in him, but he (and Turris) had the look of impressive puck passers but didn’t drive the play. McLeod on Marody’s line and Perlini on Turris’ line were the more dynamic men.
Is that big? Yes. And the thing is Marody is a good scorer, but didn’t get one. He had one shot on goal. Benson, who doesn’t shoot enough, had four and a 10-bell chance to boot. He can make up for it next game with a goal and more time with the puck on his stick, controlling play.
Did anyone move the needle enough to be considered a lock? Bouchard for sure, but he was already on the team. Among the bubbles, I believe Perlini helped himself a great deal. Not just the goal, or the chances, but he brought his best all through the game. Didn’t see him disappear at all.
What about Benson? What about Benson?
Dink. Is Benson on the outside? Among last night’s wingers, Perlini and Benson were the most impressive to my eye, along with Bourgault who won’t make the team.
So the Oilers might keep both? Sure. Perlini can play the other side. It isn’t ideal, but if Turris, Sceviour and Marody are less dynamic, then the club will make a decision there. As an aside, Benson and Perlini both spent time on the PK. That’s a tell.
LOWDOWN WITH LOWETIDE
At 10 this morning, TSN 1260, we will have complete coverage of last night’s Oilers-Flames game and analysis. Jason Gregor will be part of the conversation, we’ll also have a long look at the NFL weekend and another stunning Sunday Night game. Plus a preview of MNF. 10-1260 text, @Lowetide on twitter. See you on the radio!
I’m not sure that’s quite true, is it? In particular when you take in to account that Drai has a larger responsibility on a nightly basis – taking almost all important draws (Ryan will help now) and being a depth PK guy (would be more than a depth guy as he’s good on the PK, but loads need to be managed).
OriginalPouzar
September 27, 2021 7:44 pm
Will the pre-game ceremony honouring Podkholzin also be streamed?
Have they set aside a full hour pre-game for that or do they think that 45-50 minutes will be enough?
Can’t wait to see if Putin will have his skates on for a duo lap.
From all accounts, Juolevi has had a horrible camp and, yup, most current projections for Podkholzin have been downgraded from draft day to potential middle six guy
Considering the Flames only had 5 regulars in the lineup he’d better produce. Juniors and ahlers galore in the Flames lineup last night. Although Van only had 9 or 10 regulars in the lineup. Still Van should of, and did win. I still thank the heavens though for Ken not taking on that contract.
Colton Seviour had two assists against a “better” flames team the night before – some of those flames players were in the 2nd night of back to back as well.
What about that rising star? I assume he dominated the game but the stats page must be wrong – they have no points and zeros across the board but for two shots. Must still be in the process of updating.
Although Van only had 9 or 10 regulars in the lineup.
Uh…
That was like 3/4 of the Canucks opening night lineup (among those who’ve actually signed and shown up).
The only top 9F/top 6D missing were Boeser, Hoglander and Dickinson I think.
As things stand, Rathbone-Poolman look to be their opening night 2nd pair. Oh my.
Last edited 3 years ago by jp
OriginalPouzar
September 27, 2021 7:28 pm
Per Stauffer:
Since December 31st, 2019 the @EdmontonOilers are tied (TOR/PIT) for the 6th best winning percentage (.645) in the NHL.
Oilers have gone 52-27-7 in their last 86 GP in the regular season
Summary of @EdmontonOilers ass’t coach Glen Gulutzan on Inside Sports:
– Hyman on first PP unit as net front, Puljujarvi also to get time there – Oilers will have a five-man second unit, though expect first unit to play first 1:15-1:30 – Bouchard to get time at point on PP
Wheeler has him ranked as the 15th best prospect from 2019 and doesn’t include players already in the NHL which includes, I belive, 6 of the 9 drafted before him. He’s fallen over 20 spots since drafted.
Source close to Hamonic says the #Canucks defenceman would now prefer playing in a US market & the club is considering a trade. More games would be available without cross-border travel. Report is Hamonic is not vaxed. Ironic, considering his earlier career desires to move North.
I found it odd that, after opting out of the bubble playoffs in the name of health and safety for his family, he didn’t opt of the 2021 season which was materially more dangerous that the bubble playoffs.
Now he’s not vaccinated even though that provides the best safety for his family and he wants to go the US where it may, again, not be as safe for his family.
Seems money is the motivating factor and always has been.
BIPOC people have historical reasons for being sceptical about white man’s medicine. Hamonic is Metis (?).
Blacks are the least vaccinated group in the United States for precisely this reason. BLM is starting to make noises about the discriminatory aspect of vaccine passports towards Blacks. This is likely to become an emerging issue south of the border.
OK – that doesn’t explain his decision to (a) opt out during the safest time to play since Covid when it didn’t cost him any $$$ and (b) play during the most dangerous time to play, when opting out would have cost him money.
Was he skeptical or the white-man surgical procedures he’s had performed and, presumably, the pain meds he’s taken in connection therewith?
First of all, he has until October 1 to opt out so maybe he would take that route. Secondly, his stated reason for opting out last summer was the risk to his daughter who had health problems at the age of 8 months. We don’t know what the health situation is with his daughter now, or what he would do to protect her from exposure. Lastly, Hamonic is a deeply religious person and that also may or may not play into whether or not he has or would get vaccinated (which may be very different than Archibald who made his original views known on twitter). Jumping to the conclusion based on the info that is available that it is about money is a terrible take.
Yes, I know his stated reasons for opting out and I thought he was going to opt out for the entire 2021 season based on those reasons and was surprise that he signed.
It didn’t, and still doesn’t, make sense to me, from a health perspective, that he would opt out for the bubble playoffs (the safest play since Covid became a thing) but then play during the 2021 season (the most dangerous time to play since Covid).
The facts are what they are with respect to when he decided to play and not play (and the dangers of those decisions) and when there was a monetary implication to those decisions.
The only facts you have are a) he opted out of the bubble playoffs and b) he may not play for the Canucks this season (he could retire, opt out, may be willing to play in the states – you don’t know). Your opinion from your mostly speculative rational is a character assassination of Hamonic basically referring to him as a money grubbing liar and at this point he still deserves the benefit of the doubt.
I have more facts that those, and I cited them. Opting out when it did not effect his comp and playing when opting out would have effected his comp is a fact. Opting out (while not effecting his comp) when playing would have been the most safe while playing (where opting out would have effected his comp) at the most dangerous point – also facts.
The NHL has not applied to the Canadian government for the exemption – the NHL/NHLPA were to meet, I believe it was last Friday (apx 10 days ago) and one of the things to determine was if they were going to apply. I believe, given less than 10 unvaccinated players, they agreed not to apply.
OriginalPouzar
September 27, 2021 5:07 pm
Is Bourgault the only junior player left in camp? I think he is.
Even with his really strong performance last night (to my eye), its a bit surprising that he wasn’t released back to Shawinigan – I mean their camp is in full swing, etc. Looks like the kid earned himself a 2nd game, impressive.
No point in assigning any of the AHL guys (Kesselring, Lavoie, Hamlin, Griffith, etc. as AHL camp hasn’t started up yet, so nowhere for them to go really).
OriginalPouzar
September 27, 2021 3:41 pm
“We’ve added Hyman, Jesse will take a bigger role on it this year. Barrie back, Nurse back. Bouch will get a little time on it as well. Those guys will all play tomorrow night to work on it.” – Tip on the PP work.
Great stuff.
Should be a much stronger lineup tomorrow night given the above.
Taking my Mom and Fiancee to the game, as it is my Mom’s birthday. That is fantastic to hear.
leadfarmer
September 27, 2021 3:20 pm
Very tough last 24h for the resident troll
winchester
September 27, 2021 2:33 pm
Big Picture – Oil are unlikely to be drafting at the front anytime soon, if they even have their first rounders. So for the next 4-5 year window they basically have what they have.
It is comforting to know Bourgault looks very good and still assuming Holloway as well. With some maybes like Lavoie we should be alright.
On the backend a lot is riding on Broberg. And Broberg seems further away from the NHL than most of the prospects. Yes, he still has the tools, but he’ll never hold a spot with his give-a-ways and his play today. It is absolutely critical that Broberg develops.
And yes, Samorukov, Bergland and others are stepping up so good cover their as well. Whatever way it happens, we must have two younger players arriving soon.
Goaltenders? I dont know.
But yeah, talent going into this 4-5 year window? Id like to have Zegras but we don’t. Thus Id like to have a developed Broberg, and the team needs a developed, top 4 Broberg.
Agreed that Broberg is going to need some real time in the AHL – this was the reasonable expectation though (at least the one that I had) and it follows the Klefbom progression.
Thankfully Samorukov should be ready for NHL action this season (should be) and, while his skillset is vastly different from Broberg’s, it is substantial in its own right and his ceiling is unknown (and may not be lower than Broberg’s).
AsiaOil
September 27, 2021 2:25 pm
An under-appreciated aspect of last night’s game was that this was essentially Jay Woodcroft’s AHL roster and style of play. A lot of like about both. Tippett righted the NHL ship, and we can all be grateful for that, but Woodcroft is the Oilers Jon Cooper and needs to be given the NHL job next season.
Brogan Rafferty's Uncle Steve
September 27, 2021 2:08 pm
Bouchard early leader for the Norris???
Also, the best part of last season = no preseason.
Lol. I think you need to up your bravado, friend. No one could catch him? You already said it was a breakaway. Might I suggest “Scored on a breakaway, made the Kraken look like glue sniffing hogs!”
NHL/NHLPA signed off today on transition rules for ’21-22 season, which incl. amended critical dates calendar. Most every contract deadline, including end dates, buyouts and no-trade clauses, has been bumped back a few days. (Contracts ending June 30 will now end July 12, etc).
One part of transition rules still TBD: Both NHL and NHLPA left room for the recreation of taxi squads, should they be deemed necessary at some point during the season. They aren’t in place now. Basis for forming taxi squads would be last year’s format.
It has been this way for a little while now but I still experience a little bit of surprise when I read things that indicate that the league and the PA are making decisions in concert that are based upon what is good for the game rather than their own narrow self interest.
I think the league and players association have done a great job recently working in tandem but, for the most part, its with respect to non-direct monetary matters – protocols for how the players and teams will need to “behave” in all parts of pandemic life vis-a-vis hockey.
When things shift to how and when the money is split, there is still quite a bit of tension, as we saw prior to the 2021 season when the owners and board of governors were looking to change the summer agreement and the players fat out refused to even consider it (even though they were just kicking their debt down the road).
mit167
September 27, 2021 1:21 pm
Favorite Flame announcer zinger was in the third when he said… I can’t remember the last flame rush and I have a really good memory.
Those awards you are so proud of were for good grammar and proper spelling. Your parents must have been so proud of you having made such a profound contribution to today’s world!
I think it was when the score became 4-0, one of them said the game reminded him of watching the Harlem Globetrotters. I actually laughed out loud.
OriginalPouzar
September 27, 2021 1:21 pm
Off-Season will be a little bit late again this summer but getting close to being back on schedule:
Chris Johnston
@reporterchris
·
5m
Key dates from the NHL’s 2021-22 calendar:
March 21: Trade deadline
May 2: First day of Stanley Cup Playoffs
June 30: Last possible day of Stanley Cup Playoffs
July 1: First buyout period opens
July 7-8: NHL draft
July 12: First buyout period ends
July 13: Free agency opens
mit167
September 27, 2021 1:19 pm
Prior to the game I had both lineups written on a piece of paper and with the exception of our 3rd line and the Koekkoek Bouchard pairing, we looked out classed both in weight, and skill. I told my kid that we were going to be on the wrong end of a never ending forecheck with Dube and Backlund potting in the winners. ~ Pass the water while I choke down these crow feathers… I’m pretty sure the redline report had Bourgault weak on the boards and the cycle. He’s probably not old enough to ask someone to hold his beer… But man that kid has definitely worked on some weaknesses and its paying off big time. We cleared our end effectively, We controlled the neutral zone, We forechecked and dominated the cycle… Scored 4 goals and got the shutout. My kid asked me how many games Sutter has before his retirement. I said less than 20.
This team has depth through and through. Not all are ready for primetime tomorrow but I look forward to things like a Berglund call-up sometime this season.
Broberg can marinate some more, but he is close. Sammy…bottom 6 wingers…all sorts. I am also confident that Skinner and Konovalov are capable goalies.
It will be interesting to see how the rest of the pre-season games are going to play out, but I agree with OPs assessment below…
Only thing that is likely to change ( I assume) will be his TOI.
Last edited 3 years ago by McSorley33
UnjustEnrichment
September 27, 2021 11:25 am
Bouchard was a real solid presence last night. His poise is impressive. He looks very ready. Broberg will benefit from the same maturation process in the AHL that got Bouchard to where he now is. Kemp is reliable and effective, if not flashy. Berglund is the same, except he is slightly better at all aspects of playing defense than Kemp is at this point. One has to like the quiet competence of Berglund. Benson, to my eye, is trying to take the bull by the horns, but he still seems a little soft and peripheral.
I would agree – we didn’t see it last night, as the Oilers had the puck all night, but Benson is strong on the boards and no shrinking violet – he can be sneaky dirty.
Reja
September 27, 2021 11:05 am
Bouchard should of been played in Chi-Town series when half the D was injured and regularly this past year on 3rd pairing and who knows how high up by the end of the year. The day they signed Barrie I new he was blocked. Bouchard has the pedigree the smarts and the strength to be our best right handed in a Racoons age. He’s going to spring a lot of the gang up front on breakaways and 2 on 1’s with his tape to tape headman passes.
Coulda, woulda, shoulda are a waste of time. Hindsight is 2020! Leave yesterday where it is, the past. Moving forward knowing that for the first time since 2006 we have a playoff team with the balance and depth to be a very good team for the next number of years. It is once again a great time to be an Oiler fan!
OriginalPouzar
September 27, 2021 10:57 am
An early look at what the PP deployment might be:
Daniel Nugent-Bowman
@DNBsports
·
4m
Oilers practising the power play with McDavid on the one-time half boards and Draisaitl in the middle. RNH on the other side.
Nurse, Yamamoto and Puljujarvi replace Barrie, RNH and Hyman on PP2. McDavid and Draisaitl are back to their regular spots now.
It’s important that they have different looks on the PP you could see teams cheating on Leon’s side. This leaves Nuge side plenty of time to get his wrist shot off he needs to hit the net instead of going for the perfect shot. Hyman has good hands and Jesse big body should lead to scrambling goals.
OriginalPouzar
September 27, 2021 10:55 am
“How many players will not be in Edmonton or Bakersfield opening night? Sceviour could be in another NHL town, the loser of the Benson-Perlini battle could be lost on waivers, Bourgault will be in the QMJHL.”
This is a reason why, at this point, I’m not on board with Sceviour getting a contract. Sceviour is a “good vet” as Tippett likes to say but his ceiling is low and he’s on the back half of his career. I take each of Perlini, Benson, Turris and even Marody on the roster right now before a new contract for Sceviour.
We don’t need his PK ability – the forwards are deep at PK even without taking in to account Shore.
because, as of now, he’s outplayed Marody from day 1 including last night. He can also take faceoffs while lining up as a RW.
He’s earning it.
OriginalPouzar
September 27, 2021 10:51 am
“Berglund was top drawer, and that’s the highest grade this blog gives. He made great decisions all over the ice, passes hitting tape, shots getting through, anticipating plays, covering for Broberg as required.”
Aside from the Perlini vs. Benson vs. Turris vs. Marody battle, which didn’t really provide much separation (except Marody as the distant 4th), the biggest takeaway for me last night was Berglund. His first period was indeed top drawer – he was fantastic, elite defending in the first period and, of course, a solid 2-way performance all night.
Yes, its game 1 of exhibition, however, if he parlays that performance in to a few more against increasingly stiffer competition, the coaches will take notice and he’ll be in the conversation for NHL games as a injury call-up.
Nurse-Barrie
Lagesson-Ceci
Koekkoek-Bouchard
Russell
Smith
Koskinen
—————
This looks like opening night with:
– Lagesson as the Keith placeholder
– Shore getting the first shot at 4LW but Benson and Perlini definitely in that conversation
– Koekkoek likely the opening night 3LD but Russell in the conversation once he gets going.
That is clearly the incumbent lineup, that much is clear.
How much room there is for the new players to break into it remains to be seen, though I’d tend to agree with you. There’s lots and lots of training camp runway left still.
He is 100% in the competition with Perlini and Benson for that spot – I think all three will be on the team (along with Turris) assuming Archie is not.
OriginalPouzar
September 27, 2021 10:43 am
So Archie won’t be skating with the team again today.
He’s been out of quarantine for at least 3-4 days now. I’m fairly confident that he is likely ready to join the team fitness wise but, even though Tip has said he’s getting close to being ready to join the group, the organization isn’t going to let him do so and, subject to a 180 in his mind-set, once the waiver period starts, his name will be listed.
If Holland doesn’t want Archibald around his NHL club because of his stance on vaccinations I can’t see him wanting him around the roster in Bakersfield either.
He could be waived and assigned to Bakersfield but he may not be eligible to play – I think the arena in Bakersfield requires vaccination to enter.
Josh may be getting paid to stay home (and may be making more money as I believe his comp wouldn’t be subject to escrow if technically assigned to the AHL).
Can you please summarize! I promised myself I would stop myself from having high blood pressure episodes after reading that yahoo! So I leave reading Leavens alone.
McSorley33
September 27, 2021 10:42 am
McLeod & Perlini could be a real nice 4th line pair.
So much speed. Early days on Perlini.
If Tippett wants – this Oilers edition could be a very, very fast team.
Impossible not to get excited.
The removal of Turris, Chiasson and Neal will be huge for this team…
But the Bourgault was impressive-especially given his age.
Darth Tu
September 27, 2021 10:23 am
I’m completely in pre-season excitement over prospects mode, last night was music.
Berglund and Kemp really stood out to me in a positive way, having two more prospects that look like they could ascend to the NHL on the right hand side is huge. Having a a real, tangible prospect pipeline is a massive step towards the Oilers finally becoming a solid playoff team.
I’m not saying Berglund and Kemp both work out, or make it further than 3rd pairing D at the NHL level, but the fact that we know we actually have some talent coming on the right side of the defence means that when the inevitable injuries happen we’re not scrambling anywhere near as much as we have in the past.
Bourgault’s arrow is most definitely an up one, here’s hoping he continues to knock it out of the park in the Q this season, then pushes on the AHL next year.
I’m really struggling to find a downbeat anywhere. We all know what we’re going to get from the McDavid and Draisatls when they get going, but maybe the game yesterday shows that we finally have a set of bottom six players that can outscore the opposition bottom six… If that’s the case we might have solved one more piece of the puzzle.
Brantford Boy
September 27, 2021 9:55 am
I completely agree with our host this morning, and emphasize LT’s thoughts on Bouchard, Perlini, Benson, Berglund and Kemp.
Also on Bouchard LT: “It will be important for him to continue that clarity when playing with the Oilers veterans.” I totally agree with this as well. In my opinion rookies come in with the mindset to defer a great deal. There’s no need Evan, you’ll make the better play, use your skill with authority. I also suspect the coach’s have given him the green light too.
Truthfully, I was only willing to donate 1GB of my phone data for the game, and therefore only watched the first two periods, doesn’t seem like I missed too much. Hurry up Elon and get me my Starlink!
Coilers2021
September 27, 2021 9:40 am
I’m so happy to read that the players performed well.
Competition is a good thing and it seems like there is legit competition for a number of positions on the club for both the big boys team and Bakersfield. It might not happen this coming year but things are percolating for the future. This pipeline will only pay massive dividends in the future; be it replacing aging vets, trading for picks or trading for legit players.
Randle McMurphy
September 27, 2021 9:19 am
The Lames were so poor last night that it was hard to assess Skinner and Konovalov.
On the other hand… “Two shutouts in one game!”
jp
September 27, 2021 9:19 am
Oof. Dom working though NHL team projections from worst to best. Through the 10 worst at this point and already 4 Pacific teams accounted for.
Have they said anything about his eligibility? They have made comments about him on a specific timeline to join the main group, so I wondered if they’ve made any announcements about whether he’s allowed on w/o vaccinations or if it’s still vague?
When Holland did his presser a few days ago he was asked about when Keith would be ready.
Keith is in the 14 day quarantine just as Archibald was.
Holland’s answer was that Keith would be out of quarantine this Friday and playing his first game on Saturday. There was no talk of him being out of shape or needing to get his fitness level up because he hadn’t been on the ice.
That is when we knew the verbal on Archibald needing to get his fitness level up to standard was not to be taken seriously.
I see, so reading between the lines, they are giving him a nice long grace period to make up his mind. I’d imagine he doesn’t have too much more time though, as the season is rushing towards him and vaccination takes some time to get finished.
That would be my take. Could be wrong, of course, but from the outside why would they treat Keith’s 14 day quarantine differently than Archibald’s in terms of conditioning needs?
That take does make sense, but I believe Tippett said in one of his recent availabilities (yesterday or the day before) that Archibald would be joining the team on the ice today/tomorrow. Whether that’s true, and what else we can glean from that I’m not sure, but I’m pretty sure Tippett did say it.
I should re-watch. I thought he was more specific.
Randle McMurphy
September 27, 2021 9:06 am
Small sample size, but last night “the depth chart that rolls around in my mind all day” indeed got an adjustment; in the fashion of a 007 martini…..it was “Shaken; Not Stirred”
Last edited 3 years ago by Randle McMurphy
jonrmcleod
September 27, 2021 9:03 am
The Flames dressed 4 of their top 6 D last night, am I right?
One would think Valimaki, who a year ago was all but a lock for the Calder based off his play in Liiga, would have had a positive impact last night……
Hannifin and Tanev would have made a difference (but not as much as Nurse, Barrie, Keith, Ceci).
Imagine what our top 6 are going to do to Gurbrandson and Zadarov all year……..
Randle McMurphy
September 27, 2021 9:00 am
Back when there were voter polls going on regularly on this site, I hoped and predicted Evan Bouchard would be the Oilers pick. But since then, I really hadn’t seen enough evidence to reassure me that Evan from heaven was going to meet my early expectations. I was miles behind many here who seemed to know that Evan was the real deal.
I thought that the suggestions that Evan might be a 1st pair player by the end of the season was just hyperbole. Last night opened my eyes to the reality that Tyson Barrie might soon be superfluous.
Many of you have been banking on it; But for me its like found money.
Ceci could likely be traded too unless he falls off a cliff (which I don’t think will happen). Bottom line – this season the oilers have 3 good RHD in Barrie, Ceci and Bouchard and even if Bouchard moves up, i don’t see the immediate replacement for any of these guys in the farm system. Maybe Samorukov but I’d say they are min 2 years away from trading one of the vets. They need them all!
Kemp and Kesslering will need considerable time, if they ever arrive.
On the other hand, Filip Berglund is a mature prospect – he is new to North America so will need a bit of time but, if he’s every going to “make it”, it will be fairly soon.
We saw last night the type of game he has – very very good defensively and solid 2-way abilities. Of course, that was in the first exhibition game but it was a darn impressive start.
Filip Berglund being 3RD to start 2022/23 is not out of the question, is it?
First prize is a week in Winnipeg. Second prize is two weeks…
MrFancypantss
September 27, 2021 8:50 am
Bouchard was so damn impressive last night, gonna be one of my favourites for years to come!!
Randle McMurphy
September 27, 2021 8:50 am
Grind the flaws out of their game.
This is the key to understanding Dave Tippett imo. (and coaching in general )
Litke 94
September 27, 2021 8:47 am
The world’s best agitator returns! Quite the interrogation this morning.
Was incredible listening to the Flames broadcast last night. Raved about Bouchard from pillar to post. You could almost hear their drool dripping onto their mics.
How long has it been since we have had a D prospect like this?
So when was the last time we had a D prospect like this and handled him properly? Coffey? (Understanding that he became a HHOFer and isn’t the benchmark for Bouchard)
Darnell Nurse was a top level prospect when drafted and he has turned out pretty well. Getting seventh in Norris and eighth in All Star votes is no slouch. Different kind of player, not the passer/playmaker that Bouchard is, but his seventh in evp and fifth in evg the last 3 seasons among NHL defenseman tells me he helps a lot offensively.
it would be great to have 2 all around defenseman on the team in the prime of their careers, one on each side. Nurse is already there, and hopefully Bouchard can join him.
I know that Bouchard is primarily an offensive d-man and there are questions about his 2-way game, however, at the same time, he is an extremely intelligent hockey player and a big, strong and long body. With his size, skill and head, I think he will definitely become a very good defender to go with his elite offensive abilities.
There were a lot of folks hard on Coffey at first that he was a 4th forward couldn’t play D worth a lick but Sather played the Kids and look how that turned out.
I’m curious who thinks Dralsaitl is the second best player in the world right now?
I think its probably Kucherov. Drai and Mackinnon and Rafferty are right there though.
You forgot Podkholzin.
Why do you rank him so low?
Draisaitl’s issue is consistency. He can flat out wreck this league like the true all time greats. But he doesn’t bring that as often as McDavid does.
I’m not sure that’s quite true, is it? In particular when you take in to account that Drai has a larger responsibility on a nightly basis – taking almost all important draws (Ryan will help now) and being a depth PK guy (would be more than a depth guy as he’s good on the PK, but loads need to be managed).
Will the pre-game ceremony honouring Podkholzin also be streamed?
Have they set aside a full hour pre-game for that or do they think that 45-50 minutes will be enough?
Can’t wait to see if Putin will have his skates on for a duo lap.
Game will be delayed until after they raise his number into the rafters.
Hey, wasn’t Broberg drafted BEFORE Podkholzin?
Go figure.
You literally can’t make this up:
Harpers Hair
Reply to OriginalPouzar
September 25, 2021 8:58 pm
Whataboutism is the second last refuge of a scoundrel.
Watching now.
Olli Juolevi is going to bust. He’s terrible.
Podz might be a decent third liner one day.
From all accounts, Juolevi has had a horrible camp and, yup, most current projections for Podkholzin have been downgraded from draft day to potential middle six guy
Source?
The hockey world.
The World According to Foghorn Leghorn.
https://canucksarmy.com/2021/09/24/5-players-stood-out-canucks-day-one-camp-wrong-reasons/
This article also demonstrates how disconnected from reality you are on OEL.
It’s a good read.
Two assists tonight in his first game as a Canuck.
Shocking.
Considering the Flames only had 5 regulars in the lineup he’d better produce. Juniors and ahlers galore in the Flames lineup last night. Although Van only had 9 or 10 regulars in the lineup. Still Van should of, and did win. I still thank the heavens though for Ken not taking on that contract.
Colton Seviour had two assists against a “better” flames team the night before – some of those flames players were in the 2nd night of back to back as well.
What about that rising star? I assume he dominated the game but the stats page must be wrong – they have no points and zeros across the board but for two shots. Must still be in the process of updating.
Uh…
That was like 3/4 of the Canucks opening night lineup (among those who’ve actually signed and shown up).
The only top 9F/top 6D missing were Boeser, Hoglander and Dickinson I think.
As things stand, Rathbone-Poolman look to be their opening night 2nd pair. Oh my.
Per Stauffer:
Since December 31st, 2019 the @EdmontonOilers are tied (TOR/PIT) for the 6th best winning percentage (.645) in the NHL.
Oilers have gone 52-27-7 in their last 86 GP in the regular season
Only the playoff record matters now.
I’m going to pay a bit of attention to the regular season myself.
I think the Lightning did during their few seasons leading up to their back to back cup wins.
@ReidWilkins
Summary of @EdmontonOilers
ass’t coach Glen Gulutzan on Inside Sports:
– Hyman on first PP unit as net front, Puljujarvi also to get time there
– Oilers will have a five-man second unit, though expect first unit to play first 1:15-1:30
– Bouchard to get time at point on PP
Sounds like Hamonic looked at the Canucks d corpse and is contemplating retirement
https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/canucks-travis-hamonic-contemplating-retirement-report
He was one of two defensemen on team with a +Gsva that played more than 5 games
I think OEL and Olli survived but maybe not.
That could be a blessing in disguise as it frees up $3 million in cap space to sign Pettersson and Hughes.
But, my goodness, that D will be a real adventure.
“It is such a a blessing in disguise to have such a terrible team that players would rather retire than play”
Yes, truly blessed.
That D Corpse probably makes Pettersson closer to leaving than signing long term
I also note you’ve taken a surprising interest in all things Canucks.
You can catch the debut of Vasili Podkholzin tonight if you want to see a rising star.
6 PDT on canucks.com
Btw we are all still waiting for your season standing predictions?
I make them after opening roster are set.
Rising star? Even the most biased would have to admit his star has fallen materially since draft day.
You meant “only the most biased who can’t discern context” I’m sure.
Wheeler has him ranked as the 15th best prospect from 2019 and doesn’t include players already in the NHL which includes, I belive, 6 of the 9 drafted before him. He’s fallen over 20 spots since drafted.
Vancouver Hockey Now
@VANhockeynow
·
40m
Source close to Hamonic says the #Canucks defenceman would now prefer playing in a US market & the club is considering a trade. More games would be available without cross-border travel. Report is Hamonic is not vaxed. Ironic, considering his earlier career desires to move North.
This is Hamonic jumping ship, no?
Dhaliwal saying he isn’t anti-vax.
But he is apparently not vaxed.
You typically bandy Dhaliwal’s word as gospel, assumed you’d give it at least a little weight here.
Not sure what you don’t understand.
Hamonic reportedly has NOT been vaccinated which is why he wants to play south of the border since he would miss fewer games.
I found it odd that, after opting out of the bubble playoffs in the name of health and safety for his family, he didn’t opt of the 2021 season which was materially more dangerous that the bubble playoffs.
Now he’s not vaccinated even though that provides the best safety for his family and he wants to go the US where it may, again, not be as safe for his family.
Seems money is the motivating factor and always has been.
He seems like a very odd duck.
BIPOC people have historical reasons for being sceptical about white man’s medicine. Hamonic is Metis (?).
Blacks are the least vaccinated group in the United States for precisely this reason. BLM is starting to make noises about the discriminatory aspect of vaccine passports towards Blacks. This is likely to become an emerging issue south of the border.
OK – that doesn’t explain his decision to (a) opt out during the safest time to play since Covid when it didn’t cost him any $$$ and (b) play during the most dangerous time to play, when opting out would have cost him money.
Was he skeptical or the white-man surgical procedures he’s had performed and, presumably, the pain meds he’s taken in connection therewith?
First of all, he has until October 1 to opt out so maybe he would take that route. Secondly, his stated reason for opting out last summer was the risk to his daughter who had health problems at the age of 8 months. We don’t know what the health situation is with his daughter now, or what he would do to protect her from exposure. Lastly, Hamonic is a deeply religious person and that also may or may not play into whether or not he has or would get vaccinated (which may be very different than Archibald who made his original views known on twitter). Jumping to the conclusion based on the info that is available that it is about money is a terrible take.
Yes, I know his stated reasons for opting out and I thought he was going to opt out for the entire 2021 season based on those reasons and was surprise that he signed.
It didn’t, and still doesn’t, make sense to me, from a health perspective, that he would opt out for the bubble playoffs (the safest play since Covid became a thing) but then play during the 2021 season (the most dangerous time to play since Covid).
The facts are what they are with respect to when he decided to play and not play (and the dangers of those decisions) and when there was a monetary implication to those decisions.
So something doesn’t make sense to you, so therefore its about money, even though you don’t know all the facts.
I posted the facts behind the opinion – you don’t have to agree with the conclusion I am coming to but i provided my rational for it.
The only facts you have are a) he opted out of the bubble playoffs and b) he may not play for the Canucks this season (he could retire, opt out, may be willing to play in the states – you don’t know). Your opinion from your mostly speculative rational is a character assassination of Hamonic basically referring to him as a money grubbing liar and at this point he still deserves the benefit of the doubt.
I have more facts that those, and I cited them. Opting out when it did not effect his comp and playing when opting out would have effected his comp is a fact. Opting out (while not effecting his comp) when playing would have been the most safe while playing (where opting out would have effected his comp) at the most dangerous point – also facts.
There are conflicting reports.
You seem to be treating the tweeted report as fact, and in this case ignoring what your preferred source said just a few hours ago.
Unvaccinated multimillionaire US-based NBA basketball players don’t have to quarantine in Canada.
Why is MLB and the NBA getting special treatment, and not the NHL?
The NHL has not applied to the Canadian government for the exemption – the NHL/NHLPA were to meet, I believe it was last Friday (apx 10 days ago) and one of the things to determine was if they were going to apply. I believe, given less than 10 unvaccinated players, they agreed not to apply.
Is Bourgault the only junior player left in camp? I think he is.
Even with his really strong performance last night (to my eye), its a bit surprising that he wasn’t released back to Shawinigan – I mean their camp is in full swing, etc. Looks like the kid earned himself a 2nd game, impressive.
No point in assigning any of the AHL guys (Kesselring, Lavoie, Hamlin, Griffith, etc. as AHL camp hasn’t started up yet, so nowhere for them to go really).
“We’ve added Hyman, Jesse will take a bigger role on it this year. Barrie back, Nurse back. Bouch will get a little time on it as well. Those guys will all play tomorrow night to work on it.” – Tip on the PP work.
Great stuff.
Should be a much stronger lineup tomorrow night given the above.
Taking my Mom and Fiancee to the game, as it is my Mom’s birthday. That is fantastic to hear.
Very tough last 24h for the resident troll
Big Picture – Oil are unlikely to be drafting at the front anytime soon, if they even have their first rounders. So for the next 4-5 year window they basically have what they have.
It is comforting to know Bourgault looks very good and still assuming Holloway as well. With some maybes like Lavoie we should be alright.
On the backend a lot is riding on Broberg. And Broberg seems further away from the NHL than most of the prospects. Yes, he still has the tools, but he’ll never hold a spot with his give-a-ways and his play today. It is absolutely critical that Broberg develops.
And yes, Samorukov, Bergland and others are stepping up so good cover their as well. Whatever way it happens, we must have two younger players arriving soon.
Goaltenders? I dont know.
But yeah, talent going into this 4-5 year window? Id like to have Zegras but we don’t. Thus Id like to have a developed Broberg, and the team needs a developed, top 4 Broberg.
Agreed that Broberg is going to need some real time in the AHL – this was the reasonable expectation though (at least the one that I had) and it follows the Klefbom progression.
Thankfully Samorukov should be ready for NHL action this season (should be) and, while his skillset is vastly different from Broberg’s, it is substantial in its own right and his ceiling is unknown (and may not be lower than Broberg’s).
An under-appreciated aspect of last night’s game was that this was essentially Jay Woodcroft’s AHL roster and style of play. A lot of like about both. Tippett righted the NHL ship, and we can all be grateful for that, but Woodcroft is the Oilers Jon Cooper and needs to be given the NHL job next season.
Bouchard early leader for the Norris???
Also, the best part of last season = no preseason.
Jack Rathbone with 1G 1A last night.
Scored on a breakaway…no one could catch him.
I think the mentorship that Brogan Rafferty provided to Rathbone cannot be understated.
I sincerely hope Jack Rathbone isn’t going to be this year’s Brogan Rafferty here on this blog.
Jackel Ratbone is a phenom.
isn’t his uncle nigel rathbone?
It won’t take long for Jack wishbone to be the new and best Canuck prospect to wither and die on the Troll’s vine!?
I have bad news and bad news….
Alas Rafferty is gone, he couldn’t stand the wRath of Bone…
Rath Jackson is just doing his part in a time honored tradition.
So, like pretty much every breakaway goal
We’ve gotten to Quinn Who already.
Lol. I think you need to up your bravado, friend. No one could catch him? You already said it was a breakaway. Might I suggest “Scored on a breakaway, made the Kraken look like glue sniffing hogs!”
“Scored on a breakaway, made the Kraken look like glue sniffing hogs!”
Would you be interested in ghost writing an autobiography? haha
This is poetry.
If only Bouchard was eligible for the Calder, which he isn’t.
It is a shame. Joking aside, it is hard not to be extremely bullish about Bouchard.
It’s Bullchard.
Frank Seravalli
@frank_seravalli
·
8m
NHL/NHLPA signed off today on transition rules for ’21-22 season, which incl. amended critical dates calendar. Most every contract deadline, including end dates, buyouts and no-trade clauses, has been bumped back a few days. (Contracts ending June 30 will now end July 12, etc).
Frank Seravalli
@frank_seravalli
·
7m
One part of transition rules still TBD: Both NHL and NHLPA left room for the recreation of taxi squads, should they be deemed necessary at some point during the season. They aren’t in place now. Basis for forming taxi squads would be last year’s format.
It has been this way for a little while now but I still experience a little bit of surprise when I read things that indicate that the league and the PA are making decisions in concert that are based upon what is good for the game rather than their own narrow self interest.
Perhaps it’s two older gentlemen who are mellowing in their dottage?
Or two professionals who know what fights they can win and what they need to learn to live with.
Maybe that is the same thing as mellowing in their dotage. 😉
It could be that both sides are making money hand over fist.
Not with the shut down they haven’t. But, yeah, I agree that things go better when everybody is doing well.
I think the league and players association have done a great job recently working in tandem but, for the most part, its with respect to non-direct monetary matters – protocols for how the players and teams will need to “behave” in all parts of pandemic life vis-a-vis hockey.
When things shift to how and when the money is split, there is still quite a bit of tension, as we saw prior to the 2021 season when the owners and board of governors were looking to change the summer agreement and the players fat out refused to even consider it (even though they were just kicking their debt down the road).
Favorite Flame announcer zinger was in the third when he said… I can’t remember the last flame rush and I have a really good memory.
I thought he said, “I can’t remember the last flame scoring chance? and I have a really good memory?”
He should of asked HH, I’m sure it’s circled on a past calender.
“should HAVE“
Now now Mr Hair. You are once again adamant but wrong.
“Should of” is the bastardization of “should’ve” and results from the pronunciation which in fact sounds like should of and accounts for this error.
Sorry…I don’t speak Eubonics.
Those awards you are so proud of were for good grammar and proper spelling. Your parents must have been so proud of you having made such a profound contribution to today’s world!
thats a whole nother thing
There’s really other things to invest your energy into, may I suggest sweeping the property the Oilers have rented within your head.
I think it was when the score became 4-0, one of them said the game reminded him of watching the Harlem Globetrotters. I actually laughed out loud.
Off-Season will be a little bit late again this summer but getting close to being back on schedule:
Chris Johnston
@reporterchris
·
5m
Key dates from the NHL’s 2021-22 calendar:
March 21: Trade deadline
May 2: First day of Stanley Cup Playoffs
June 30: Last possible day of Stanley Cup Playoffs
July 1: First buyout period opens
July 7-8: NHL draft
July 12: First buyout period ends
July 13: Free agency opens
Prior to the game I had both lineups written on a piece of paper and with the exception of our 3rd line and the Koekkoek Bouchard pairing, we looked out classed both in weight, and skill. I told my kid that we were going to be on the wrong end of a never ending forecheck with Dube and Backlund potting in the winners. ~ Pass the water while I choke down these crow feathers… I’m pretty sure the redline report had Bourgault weak on the boards and the cycle. He’s probably not old enough to ask someone to hold his beer… But man that kid has definitely worked on some weaknesses and its paying off big time. We cleared our end effectively, We controlled the neutral zone, We forechecked and dominated the cycle… Scored 4 goals and got the shutout. My kid asked me how many games Sutter has before his retirement. I said less than 20.
He’s old enough in Quebec!
Yikes, McDavid in some distress (but is fine):
https://twitter.com/GenePrincipe/status/1442528021882097668
Holy cow! Thank Gord nothing serious!
That was fun to watch last night!
One game, but…
This team has depth through and through. Not all are ready for primetime tomorrow but I look forward to things like a Berglund call-up sometime this season.
Broberg can marinate some more, but he is close. Sammy…bottom 6 wingers…all sorts. I am also confident that Skinner and Konovalov are capable goalies.
It will be interesting to see how the rest of the pre-season games are going to play out, but I agree with OPs assessment below…
“4th line: Benson/McLeod/Turris
Extras: Shore/Perlini
Waived: Marody
Released: Sceviour”
Tough for Marody, but he has yet been able to elevate his game to a point where it could be argued he can take someone else’s job.
I think Tippet is going to want a 4RW that can take draws…
Perlini vs Benson just got a lot more interesting too…
We will know the Oilers are progressing with their depth when sadly 2-3 players get claimed off of waivers, e.g., Laggs, Benson or Perlini, Marody…
I’m really enjoying that the commentary on Bouchard has transitioned from quips like lacks urgency to calm feet, or showing poise.
I don’t think anything has changed aside from perhaps his adjustment to NHL timing.
Agreed. Nothing has changed with Bouchard.
Only thing that is likely to change ( I assume) will be his TOI.
Bouchard was a real solid presence last night. His poise is impressive. He looks very ready. Broberg will benefit from the same maturation process in the AHL that got Bouchard to where he now is. Kemp is reliable and effective, if not flashy. Berglund is the same, except he is slightly better at all aspects of playing defense than Kemp is at this point. One has to like the quiet competence of Berglund. Benson, to my eye, is trying to take the bull by the horns, but he still seems a little soft and peripheral.
You had me until you called Benson soft and peripheral.
I would agree – we didn’t see it last night, as the Oilers had the puck all night, but Benson is strong on the boards and no shrinking violet – he can be sneaky dirty.
Bouchard should of been played in Chi-Town series when half the D was injured and regularly this past year on 3rd pairing and who knows how high up by the end of the year. The day they signed Barrie I new he was blocked. Bouchard has the pedigree the smarts and the strength to be our best right handed in a Racoons age. He’s going to spring a lot of the gang up front on breakaways and 2 on 1’s with his tape to tape headman passes.
On the plus side, going by the verbal that even with Barrie still here it doesn’t sound like Bouchard is blocked anymore.
Coulda, woulda, shoulda are a waste of time. Hindsight is 2020! Leave yesterday where it is, the past. Moving forward knowing that for the first time since 2006 we have a playoff team with the balance and depth to be a very good team for the next number of years. It is once again a great time to be an Oiler fan!
An early look at what the PP deployment might be:
Daniel Nugent-Bowman
@DNBsports
·
4m
Oilers practising the power play with McDavid on the one-time half boards and Draisaitl in the middle. RNH on the other side.
Nurse, Yamamoto and Puljujarvi replace Barrie, RNH and Hyman on PP2. McDavid and Draisaitl are back to their regular spots now.
It’s important that they have different looks on the PP you could see teams cheating on Leon’s side. This leaves Nuge side plenty of time to get his wrist shot off he needs to hit the net instead of going for the perfect shot. Hyman has good hands and Jesse big body should lead to scrambling goals.
“How many players will not be in Edmonton or Bakersfield opening night? Sceviour could be in another NHL town, the loser of the Benson-Perlini battle could be lost on waivers, Bourgault will be in the QMJHL.”
This is a reason why, at this point, I’m not on board with Sceviour getting a contract. Sceviour is a “good vet” as Tippett likes to say but his ceiling is low and he’s on the back half of his career. I take each of Perlini, Benson, Turris and even Marody on the roster right now before a new contract for Sceviour.
We don’t need his PK ability – the forwards are deep at PK even without taking in to account Shore.
I currently have the bottom 11-14 as:
4th line: Benson/McLeod/Turris
Extras: Shore/Perlini
Waived: Marody
Released: Sceviour
Its only one game though.
Do you know what kind of PK time Benson and Marody got in Bakersfield and how they looked there?
Marody didn’t PK in Bakersfield.
Benson did PK this past season but I fully believe the verbal on how much is over-stated (even by Woodcroft himself).
Benson was a depth PK guy for sure – he would be used after the likes of Joe G., Malone, Cracknell, Esposito, McLeod, etc.
He did fine but he wasn’t a material PK guy and wouldn’t see the likes of PP1.
Lots of talk about Benson PKing to help make the NHL but, really, he’s not going to PK on the roster this year.
Appreciate the info.
Question…. but why do you think Turris makes the team?
because, as of now, he’s outplayed Marody from day 1 including last night. He can also take faceoffs while lining up as a RW.
He’s earning it.
“Berglund was top drawer, and that’s the highest grade this blog gives. He made great decisions all over the ice, passes hitting tape, shots getting through, anticipating plays, covering for Broberg as required.”
Aside from the Perlini vs. Benson vs. Turris vs. Marody battle, which didn’t really provide much separation (except Marody as the distant 4th), the biggest takeaway for me last night was Berglund. His first period was indeed top drawer – he was fantastic, elite defending in the first period and, of course, a solid 2-way performance all night.
Yes, its game 1 of exhibition, however, if he parlays that performance in to a few more against increasingly stiffer competition, the coaches will take notice and he’ll be in the conversation for NHL games as a injury call-up.
He did exactly what he needed to do last night.
First Group Today:
Hyman-McDavid-Puljujarvi
RNH-Draisaitl-Yamamoto
Foegele-Ryan-Kassian
Shore-McLeod-Turris
Nurse-Barrie
Lagesson-Ceci
Koekkoek-Bouchard
Russell
Smith
Koskinen
—————
This looks like opening night with:
– Lagesson as the Keith placeholder
– Shore getting the first shot at 4LW but Benson and Perlini definitely in that conversation
– Koekkoek likely the opening night 3LD but Russell in the conversation once he gets going.
Tippett must find joy in trolling us.
Shore as the 4 LW…
Or he is letting Benson and Perlini know who the veteran is that they have to be better than in order to take his spot.
That is clearly the incumbent lineup, that much is clear.
How much room there is for the new players to break into it remains to be seen, though I’d tend to agree with you. There’s lots and lots of training camp runway left still.
He is 100% in the competition with Perlini and Benson for that spot – I think all three will be on the team (along with Turris) assuming Archie is not.
So Archie won’t be skating with the team again today.
He’s been out of quarantine for at least 3-4 days now. I’m fairly confident that he is likely ready to join the team fitness wise but, even though Tip has said he’s getting close to being ready to join the group, the organization isn’t going to let him do so and, subject to a 180 in his mind-set, once the waiver period starts, his name will be listed.
Leavins makes an argument for a different scenario at least, initially.
https://edmontonjournal.com/sports/hockey/nhl/cult-of-hockey/the-edmonton-oilers-josh-archibald-conundrum-9-things
If Holland doesn’t want Archibald around his NHL club because of his stance on vaccinations I can’t see him wanting him around the roster in Bakersfield either.
He could be waived and assigned to Bakersfield but he may not be eligible to play – I think the arena in Bakersfield requires vaccination to enter.
Josh may be getting paid to stay home (and may be making more money as I believe his comp wouldn’t be subject to escrow if technically assigned to the AHL).
Can you please summarize! I promised myself I would stop myself from having high blood pressure episodes after reading that yahoo! So I leave reading Leavens alone.
McLeod & Perlini could be a real nice 4th line pair.
So much speed. Early days on Perlini.
If Tippett wants – this Oilers edition could be a very, very fast team.
Impossible not to get excited.
The removal of Turris, Chiasson and Neal will be huge for this team…
Benson- Macleod – Perlini ???
Perlini – MacLeod – Turris ???
Benson – MacLeod – Turris ???
Perlini – MacLeod – Sceviour ???
Periling – MacLeod – Archibald ( Hell yeah !!! )
Get the Vax Arch !!!
Wow. Tough with the quality of competition….
But the Bourgault was impressive-especially given his age.
I’m completely in pre-season excitement over prospects mode, last night was music.
Berglund and Kemp really stood out to me in a positive way, having two more prospects that look like they could ascend to the NHL on the right hand side is huge. Having a a real, tangible prospect pipeline is a massive step towards the Oilers finally becoming a solid playoff team.
I’m not saying Berglund and Kemp both work out, or make it further than 3rd pairing D at the NHL level, but the fact that we know we actually have some talent coming on the right side of the defence means that when the inevitable injuries happen we’re not scrambling anywhere near as much as we have in the past.
Bourgault’s arrow is most definitely an up one, here’s hoping he continues to knock it out of the park in the Q this season, then pushes on the AHL next year.
I’m really struggling to find a downbeat anywhere. We all know what we’re going to get from the McDavid and Draisatls when they get going, but maybe the game yesterday shows that we finally have a set of bottom six players that can outscore the opposition bottom six… If that’s the case we might have solved one more piece of the puzzle.
I completely agree with our host this morning, and emphasize LT’s thoughts on Bouchard, Perlini, Benson, Berglund and Kemp.
Also on Bouchard LT: “It will be important for him to continue that clarity when playing with the Oilers veterans.” I totally agree with this as well. In my opinion rookies come in with the mindset to defer a great deal. There’s no need Evan, you’ll make the better play, use your skill with authority. I also suspect the coach’s have given him the green light too.
Truthfully, I was only willing to donate 1GB of my phone data for the game, and therefore only watched the first two periods, doesn’t seem like I missed too much. Hurry up Elon and get me my Starlink!
I’m so happy to read that the players performed well.
Competition is a good thing and it seems like there is legit competition for a number of positions on the club for both the big boys team and Bakersfield. It might not happen this coming year but things are percolating for the future. This pipeline will only pay massive dividends in the future; be it replacing aging vets, trading for picks or trading for legit players.
The Lames were so poor last night that it was hard to assess Skinner and Konovalov.
On the other hand… “Two shutouts in one game!”
Oof. Dom working though NHL team projections from worst to best. Through the 10 worst at this point and already 4 Pacific teams accounted for.
https://theathletic.com/2843332/2021/09/27/dom-luszczyszyns-2021-22-nhl-team-previews/
Oilers to contend for the Presidents trophy?
I imagine Seattle and Calgary are going to be up soon on that list too.
Thanks for that – HH usually breaks these stories re: the Canucks… he must have been off fishing
He took last night off as well, as per normal when the Oilers have a good night on the ice.
Not to be a downer, but terrible night for Josh Archibald.
Hope it eased his decision making.
Have they said anything about his eligibility? They have made comments about him on a specific timeline to join the main group, so I wondered if they’ve made any announcements about whether he’s allowed on w/o vaccinations or if it’s still vague?
When Holland did his presser a few days ago he was asked about when Keith would be ready.
Keith is in the 14 day quarantine just as Archibald was.
Holland’s answer was that Keith would be out of quarantine this Friday and playing his first game on Saturday. There was no talk of him being out of shape or needing to get his fitness level up because he hadn’t been on the ice.
That is when we knew the verbal on Archibald needing to get his fitness level up to standard was not to be taken seriously.
I see, so reading between the lines, they are giving him a nice long grace period to make up his mind. I’d imagine he doesn’t have too much more time though, as the season is rushing towards him and vaccination takes some time to get finished.
That would be my take. Could be wrong, of course, but from the outside why would they treat Keith’s 14 day quarantine differently than Archibald’s in terms of conditioning needs?
Because the organization has finally found some class in how they handle PR matters. Refreshing change.
That take does make sense, but I believe Tippett said in one of his recent availabilities (yesterday or the day before) that Archibald would be joining the team on the ice today/tomorrow. Whether that’s true, and what else we can glean from that I’m not sure, but I’m pretty sure Tippett did say it.
I see now that OP posted Archibald isn’t on the ice again today. Perhaps Tippett (or I) was mistaken or plans changed.
I’m not sure that Tippett ever said “today or tomorrow” did he? I believe he had stated “getting close” or words to that effect, no?
I should re-watch. I thought he was more specific.
Small sample size, but last night “the depth chart that rolls around in my mind all day” indeed got an adjustment; in the fashion of a 007 martini…..it was “Shaken; Not Stirred”
The Flames dressed 4 of their top 6 D last night, am I right?
Yes, and the bottom 6 forwards…
Was there one defenseman who could make an outlet pass?
One would think Valimaki, who a year ago was all but a lock for the Calder based off his play in Liiga, would have had a positive impact last night……
Hannifin and Tanev would have made a difference (but not as much as Nurse, Barrie, Keith, Ceci).
Imagine what our top 6 are going to do to Gurbrandson and Zadarov all year……..
Back when there were voter polls going on regularly on this site, I hoped and predicted Evan Bouchard would be the Oilers pick. But since then, I really hadn’t seen enough evidence to reassure me that Evan from heaven was going to meet my early expectations. I was miles behind many here who seemed to know that Evan was the real deal.
I thought that the suggestions that Evan might be a 1st pair player by the end of the season was just hyperbole. Last night opened my eyes to the reality that Tyson Barrie might soon be superfluous.
Many of you have been banking on it; But for me its like found money.
#haveyounoteyestosee
Exactly. Imagine if Bouchard really takes the bull by the horns this year. Barrie could be traded and the Coilers will come out ahead.
Ceci could likely be traded too unless he falls off a cliff (which I don’t think will happen). Bottom line – this season the oilers have 3 good RHD in Barrie, Ceci and Bouchard and even if Bouchard moves up, i don’t see the immediate replacement for any of these guys in the farm system. Maybe Samorukov but I’d say they are min 2 years away from trading one of the vets. They need them all!
Kemp and Kesslering will need considerable time, if they ever arrive.
On the other hand, Filip Berglund is a mature prospect – he is new to North America so will need a bit of time but, if he’s every going to “make it”, it will be fairly soon.
We saw last night the type of game he has – very very good defensively and solid 2-way abilities. Of course, that was in the first exhibition game but it was a darn impressive start.
Filip Berglund being 3RD to start 2022/23 is not out of the question, is it?
I think you’d still keep Barrie for a while as rookies go through ups and downs
Go Now to play Hunter1909’s Infamous Death March here:
http://www.oilersdeathmarch.com/marches/2021-22
What is the grand prize?
First prize is a Cadillac Eldorado.
Second prize is a set of steak knives.
Third prize? You’re fired?
First prize is a week in Winnipeg. Second prize is two weeks…
Bouchard was so damn impressive last night, gonna be one of my favourites for years to come!!
Grind the flaws out of their game.
This is the key to understanding Dave Tippett imo. (and coaching in general )
The world’s best agitator returns! Quite the interrogation this morning.
Was incredible listening to the Flames broadcast last night. Raved about Bouchard from pillar to post. You could almost hear their drool dripping onto their mics.
How long has it been since we have had a D prospect like this?
2012 – Justin Schultz
But we screwed that up
So when was the last time we had a D prospect like this and handled him properly? Coffey? (Understanding that he became a HHOFer and isn’t the benchmark for Bouchard)
Darnell Nurse was a top level prospect when drafted and he has turned out pretty well. Getting seventh in Norris and eighth in All Star votes is no slouch. Different kind of player, not the passer/playmaker that Bouchard is, but his seventh in evp and fifth in evg the last 3 seasons among NHL defenseman tells me he helps a lot offensively.
it would be great to have 2 all around defenseman on the team in the prime of their careers, one on each side. Nurse is already there, and hopefully Bouchard can join him.
The key phrase there is “all-around defenseman”.
I know that Bouchard is primarily an offensive d-man and there are questions about his 2-way game, however, at the same time, he is an extremely intelligent hockey player and a big, strong and long body. With his size, skill and head, I think he will definitely become a very good defender to go with his elite offensive abilities.
There were a lot of folks hard on Coffey at first that he was a 4th forward couldn’t play D worth a lick but Sather played the Kids and look how that turned out.
No one does a tough interview like LT’s alter ego!
I thought the flames broadcast team did an admirable job last night – they gave the Oilers full credit for their play and the domination.