The Edmonton Oilers played a back-to-back game in Penticton last night, the group looking more organized, with better legs. There were also injuries. The club is 2-0-0 with a Monday game versus the Vancouver Canucks to come. Dylan Holloway had his legs, an edge and scored a fantastic goal against a top-flight goaltender in Dustin Wolf. That’s the lead story this morning and it’s potentially a big one. Holloway as an opening night option makes the roster construction both easier and more complex. The game is afoot!
Oilers prospects are 2-0-0 in Penticton, and Xavier Bourgault is making plays on the top line. A look at his chances of making the Oilers, what he'll do in Bakersfield and his top comparables. https://t.co/8UvPmArKHj
Olivier Rodrigue made a big save early in the game after some confounding work by Edmonton’s junior D. Also made a strong save off Jeremie Poirier. The young goalie was brilliant on a Calgary power play later in the first. He played well through the heart of the game but wasn’t tested much (similar to Fanti’s Friday game). There was a mixup behind Rodrigue’s net in the third period but the goaler froze the puck before disaster struck. He made another great save (Boucher) later in the final frame. He stopped 17 of 18, .944 and I considered him as a possible star but decided he wasn’t busy enough. Great game for a prospect who maybe we’d forgotten, hopefully this leads to a strong season for him.
Philip Broberg had a strong moment against Walker Duehr on a dangerous looking rush, Edmonton’s blue marked him all the way in speed and physicality. Good moment, great wheels, determination. Otherwise, played a quiet game defensively, with a hit or two that got noticed. We haven’t seen his offensive flair in this tournament, important not to overreact over two outings. I think he’ll be in the opening night lineup. He is now 6.03, 222.
Mike Kesselring was effective defensively and very physical. He had several run-ins with Duehr in the first, and had a very long shift at the end of the first period when the Flames began to take over the physical side of the game. He impressed. Fought Klapka in the third, it was over early. I think he’s turned a corner and might push for NHL time this season, the speed and power is more compelling now, but this is a rookie tournament and you’ll need to see it through the preseason and into the AHL campiagn.
Jeremy Hanzel struggled to clear net front on the first goal and took a penalty later in the period. He had some exposure during the game, Flames forcing him into coverage mistakes.
Phil Kemp had a solid chance on a one-timer early in the second period. He was physical at times, specifically later in the game against Ciona. I think his game makes it difficult to judge because he’s a shutdown type and any offense is shocking. He didn’t shine like Kesselring in this tournament, we can say that much.
Max Wanner made a nice move on an early power play for a good look. He iced the puck in a tough spot late in the first period. He handled the sorties well, doesn’t seem to be out of his element at all. Holland mentioned him as an impressive prospect at this camp. In watching this tournament, he’s the one junior defensemen who can wheel with the more mature players.
Charlie Wright made a nice pass to Kemp for a chance. He skates well, Colin Chaulk didn’t put him in too many difficult situations. I’d like to see him again.
Dylan Holloway scored a memorable goal in the third period, from range, against a quality goalie (Wolf). You can’t script a better moment for the young forward. He had a great look early, using his terrific speed to place Calgary’s defense in immediate chase mode. He found iron on that sequence. Had a shorthanded breakaway later in the first, the puck wouldn’t settle down. Physical presence. Hard work along the wall got Holloway an assist on the second Oilers goal. Holloway would add an EN goal for a two-goal game. Ken Holland had much to say about many things with Thomas Drance on Saturday, it is here.
James Hamblin had a second period breakaway on the PK but didn’t do much with it. He did cash later in the period on a fabulous pass from Bourgault. Hamblin’s shot was quality. He’s too good by plenty for this tournament.
Xavier Bourgault drew a first-period penalty, something he also accomplished in the first game against Winnipeg. His astute pass to Hamblin was key to Edmonton’s second goal. He’s an aggressive forechecker and turns over pucks consistently. I have liked his game through two contests and am of the belief that he could see NHL games this season. My story at The Athletic today discusses his chances.
Noah Philp had good speed off the rush and beat Dustin Wolf clean early in the game. He had another chance in the third that showed promise. Again solid in the dot, heady player (they used to use that word instead of smart) good passes. I’m looking forward to watching him in Bakersfield this season, it’s the most important one of his career.
Matvey Petrov was more noticeable in this game, good passes and decisions with the puck. Took a hit from behind in the second period, took a moment to get up. He took a shot from long range late, I think he was frustrated by not creating more during these games. That’s a good sign. I hope they play him Monday.
Filip Engaras had some more smart moments, he’s good at not giving up on plays and because of it there are more opportunities for success. He made a brilliant pass to Chiasson early in the third period. He was getting under the skin of the Calgary players often enough to be a target. Of all the AHL contracts, he’s impressed me the most.
Tyler Tullio was scheduled to play but didn’t dress.
Dino Kambeitz drew a second period penalty. He also had a couple of good looks. I like his determination.
Carter Savoie looked injured early.
Reid Schaefer got some PK time, €√¥£€^$ informed us he plays 4×5 in Seattle in the comments section last night. He had a dandy look on the PP in the second period but didn’t get the shot he wanted off against Wolf in the Calgary net. Showed he’ll stand up to the tougher Flames. Like Petrov, I think it’s clear this is not Schaefer’s time, but hold the hell on until next year.
Jake Chiasson won some battles, made some passes and showed some offensive flair. He seems to be a little forgotten in what is a very deep group of forwards, maybe it’s me. A great chance (or two) in the third period coming out of the corner. Made a brilliant pass to Philp late but the shooter fanned on the opportunity.
Luca Hauf was used sparingly, we didn’t get much time to see him.
Ty Nash created a great chance off the forecheck in the third period, shot it wide. He’s an interesting player.
NEW for The Athletic: Through four offseasons, the Oilers under general manager Ken Holland have developed a unique procurement model. What’s he building in there?
It’s very rare for a player in the QMJHL in his draft+1 Season who scored between 1.49 and 1.99 pts/gp (+/- .25 pts/gp from Bourgault) to make the NHL in his draft+2 season. Since the 2008 draft, only Mercer has done it. Only Huberdeau and Meier have made it in their Draft+3 season. Grigorenko, Coyle, Sprong, Kucherov, Comtois, Palat, and Batherson made it in their Draft+4 season. Ivan Barbashev made it in his Draft+5 season. Then a few late bloomers made it in their Draft+6 to Draft+8 Seasons: E Svechnikov, Danault, Hoffman, Byron. Ottawa held onto Hoffman long enough to see him thrive. But Chicago let Danault go, and Calgary let Byron go before they took off. Detroit has seen Svechnikov improve last season in Winnipeg. We’ll see if he takes another step this year.
But, then again, Bourgault looks pretty good out there. Maybe he’ll join Mercer. Even D+3 seems a bit rare and only accomplished by 2 players who went #3, and #9 overall in the draft. D+4 seems the most likely scenario based on this unscientific gathering of data, especially on a team that is getting tougher to crack.
Seeing this also gives me more hope for Lavoie, who is also just within .25pts/gp of Baourgault and has had 2 of those important development seasons hampered by COVID and now an injury. Lavoie is going into his D+4 season.
This is insightful and must say something about the quality of the Q, as I’m guessing players with those numbers show more success when coming out of the OHL or WHL. Given Bourgault’s size and playing style I think he would benefit from more time to gain strength.
I also hope this means that the oilers won’t give up on Lavoie. If I recall correctly his even strength scoring last year was actually not bad. Let’s hope he doesn’t miss too much time this year.
I’m sorry to crap on your work a bit, but the only 3 players I looked at (Kucherov, Coyle and Danault) scored in your pts/game range for the 1st time in their draft +2 seasons (not draft +1 like Bourgault). Kucherov and Coyle also played 52 and 37 games in the NHL the next season (their draft +3).
I’m not sure about the other players you list, but I think you may be selling Bourgault short on both ends (how early he scored 1.74 pts/game, and how soon after that the comps you picked made it to the NHL).
It’s OK though, the Bourg will assimilate you sooner than later 🙂
No problem. Yeah, I was trying to do this quickly so there may be some mistakes. I organized them by their 19-year-old seasons as a proxy for D+1, which I know will sometimes be off. So I searched for 19-year-old seasons (as defined by Elite Prospects) and set cutoffs at .25 pts/GP above Bourgault and below). Then I went to their page and looked at when they were drafted and what I thought was their D+1 season and went up from there. I didn’t count any player as having made it to the NHL until they played an entire season or nearly a full season in the NHL so those split seasons didn’t count by the way I was tracking it. Therefore Kucherov and Coyle still became full-time NHLers in their D+4 seasons. Bourgault may get some NHL time this season or next but I doubt he’ll play an entire season until his D+3 or even his D+4 season.
I guess that means Kucherov, Coyle, and Danault didn’t turn 19 until their D+2 seasons.
Barbashev (1.67pts/GP, #33 in ’14) and Grigorenko (1.7pts/GP, #12 in ’12) are good comparables for Draft pedigree and D+1 scoring.
The positive thing about the Mercer comparable (1.57, #18 in ’20) is that Bourgault outscored him and it is more recent and therefore a better gauge of the quality of the present-day Q. They were drafted quite close, too (#18 & #22). Hopefully, that’s it and Bourgault outplays Mercer.
Any updates on Carter Savoie? Hoping its not a serious injury
Last edited 1 year ago by flyfish1168
PinkSocks
September 18, 2022 7:21 pm
I have a theory and I’ll post it tomorrow morning as well. The team is coming back with almost all of the members from last season. Mike Smith was very clearly well respected and looked up to by the core. In the event Skinner falters, you know full well Smith will be rehabbing and in the gym as often as he feels on KH’s Zetterberg Island,and through the process of a season there is enough buffer room by moving a player that cap room can be generated. Don’t put it past KH to create a situation that post trade deadling he can approach the end of the season and into 22-23 playoffs with a Campbell/Smith combo.
Battling Mike battled his way past Calgary but in the process he emptied the tank. Mikey is done it’s over he’s got 5 kids to Coach. The Mike and Mikko era is over it’s Jack and Stuart’s time to shine.
I’m not sure Mike Smith cost the Oilers a shot at the cup. I do remember him being the best goalie in the league for 6 weeks, coinciding with the team moving from outside the playoffs to 2nd in the division.
As far as coming back mid-season goes, I can’t tell you how Mike feels or what goes on in his head but only that Seravelli and Friedman have both talked about him being much more banged up during the playoffs than we know. Friedman was very clear that he wished Smith would let the public know as we’d be blown away of what he was playing through.
I type the above mainly to note that I don’t think he’s “just taking a break” but to point out that his body is really beat up (from accounts) and, also, a 30 year old player would have trouble taking 8 months off and then deciding to get in to shape and join a team for a playoff run – seem highly unreasonable to think the over 40 Smith will be attempting the same.
Bear can pass him, do not care about Myers contract. I’m talking specifically about Myers as second pair RH (which you mentioned). Myers had a fine year, but the previous campaigns were uneven.
By next year there is gonna very few teams able to take on cap and a lot of teams trying to dump cap on them. So if you think 6 mil cap will be given away think again
I did not know about the intended closure of the comments section and how perilously close we came to disintegration until I read JM’s comment below.
I would like to say thank you to everyone who posted their feelings, especially their deep gratitude to LT. You are messengers from my own heart. And clearly your trust and openness to share what this place means to all of us, have saved the blog. Thank you so much for being there from those of us who were not.
And a special Thank-you to you, LT, for everything you have done for us over the years, but also for continuing to exemplify a remarkable approach to life. Your willingness and courage to allow your heart to change shines and calls as a standard to us all.
Thank you for seeing how we feel about this place, and trusting back enough to allow, if I may be pretentious, the dialogos to continue.
I believe the blog also stopped working entirely without the comments section:
He fought the blog and the blog won!
OriginalPouzar
September 18, 2022 6:04 pm
1) Bruce Curlock was on Rishaug’s Got Yer’ Back podcast. He’s in Penticton and it was a great 10 minutes of some of his insights – he really is a “must follow” in my opinion for prospect analysis.
2) Rishaug also had a 1 on 1 with Broberg in the pod. Philip’s soft spoken but he’s honest and a good listen.
3) I was going to mention this earlier today but forgot and Rishaug reminded me when he read one of Holland’s quote’s in Drance’s article – when Holland was talking about at least one young d-men making the team and hopefully more than one push, he listed off: Broberg, Samorukov, Dehanais, Niemelainen and Kesselring – notable by his absence to me was Phil Kemp (with Kesselring’s inclusion in the group) – truth be told, Kesselring has separated himself from Kemp (and was always more of a “real prospect” in my mind the entire time).
4) Also, on Holland’s quote: he mentioned having “6 d-men plus Ryan Murray” – I think Murray is going to play quite a few games, on both left and right side and maybe even up and down the lineup a bit, but I do think Holland has him outside the starting lineup if everything breaks as planned.
Yeah it’s notable for sure that Holland mentioned Kesselring in that group. His inclusion is the change (I don’t believe he or Kemp have been mentioned with that group pushing for spots before now). Seems the big man is getting himself noticed by the right people.
On Murray and playing RD, I also thought it was notable that DNB (in his article a couple of days ago) mentioned a team source indicated Broberg would move to the right side of Barrie were to be traded.
Yes, I was going to mention in my post that this was the first time I had heard the org mention Kesslering in the “pushing group” – it was more of an inclusion for Kesselring then an exclusion for Kemp but I guess the point was really that there seem to be separation between the two (they have generally been linked together for a bit now).
It would be a bit odd to see Broberg over on the right ahead of Murray as I’ve heard Broberg say twice now that he’s more comfortable on the left side (on Rishaug’s GYB pod today) and he confirmed that he didn’t play any right side in the AHL and in Europe is was mostly when he was younger.
I mean, filling in for a few games here or there, sure, but as a term solution, at this point, seems aggressive, right?
Yes, Kesselring and Kemp have been usually linked, and this does appears to be a sign of some separation (as was also clear watching them play).
I didn’t realize Broberg hadn’t played much RD in the SHL, thought he had. But DNB’s mention of it presumably does mean something. And he did play about 30% of his minutes last year with one of Keith, Niemalainen, Lagesson or Nurse. I think he played RD in most of those. Whatever the case, the org. does seem to think it’s an option.
jm363561
September 18, 2022 4:37 pm
September 3 – LT announces the closure of the Comments section.
September 4 – Salvation Day – Decision to close the Comments section is reversed. LT notes “The biggest problems we have are in the morning, when some posters simply overrun the blog ….”
September 11 – Original Pouzar posts – “I am trying to limit my posts …”.
September 18 – jm363561 posts – ”Please respect our gracious host’s concerns. You are putting the Comments section at risk.”
Hunters death march should have one more guesstimate, rather then yaks goals amounts, connors, or drais, it should be how many times this year OP’s daily posts have a larger word count then LTs daily blog article.
That, is something that would be interesting to say the least.
*This is a joke – nothing personal. Sarcasm meters don’t work in comment sections.
No, I won’t pull the comments section again. I have made moves to alter the comments section and my hope is that we have a more streamlined daily interaction. I think we’re fine.
Cahoon
September 18, 2022 3:46 pm
Is the Vancouver game happening today or was I mistaken? I see no stream anywhere.
The high end players have been getting huge raises while the cap has been barely climbing. There is only so much to go around.
OriginalPouzar
September 18, 2022 1:00 pm
1) Holloway very well could prove to the best current 3LW in the org but I think we’ve learned not to put much stock in actual NHL exhibition games let alone prospect games, right? One step at a time and he killed his half AHL season step and is now killing prospect camp. Next step, his first main camp on-ice session.
Taking away a player out move for cap structuring (which seems somewhat unlikely at this point), there are two legit and substantial established 3LW options ahead of him – Foegele and Janmark. That’s quite the hurdle to jump but, holy hell, what a fantastic option for injury call-up. Not only a player that is very likely NHL ready but highly reasonably likely to be able to provide an impact upon call-up.
2) I heard Stauff talking about Wanner maybe getting a contract and I thought “no-brainer” – he’s already done enough to earn an ELC and therefore exceeded expectations for a 7th rounder. He turns 20 in March so there is no rush to get the deal done before the end of the calendar year for future slide purposes. Whether he signs tomorrow or in May, the first year will kick in next season – no slide next year.
3) I’m not sure the issue with Samorukov on the roster presuming he’s earned the spot. To the extent they need a forward call-up due to an injury (that isn’t an LTIR injury), they can waive/assign Samourkov at that time to call up a Benson or Griffith or Shore or McKegg or Malone or whoever.
Yes, losing Samorukov on waivers would matter. This player has been drafted and developed and is on the cusp of helping the organization at the NHL level. He has a skill-set that the organization really could use in the defensive group. People love Niemo due to his hitting but Samorukov is a great body-checker, in the open ice, and he’s a big, strong and aggressive defender with a strong 2-way game. I think he’s simply better than Deharnais and Niemelainen and if he could just stay healthy, I think he’ll prove it to Oiler fans.
4) The Oilers will be in LTIR again and a contending team (i.e. cap team) – there simply won’t be any excess cap space at the deadline. If they stay, say, $1.5MM under their cap now, they will still only have $1.5MM of cap space at the deadline – they don’t get to accrue anything with that cap space like a team that isn’t in LTIR would (where it would become like $6MM at the deadline if they accrued daily). No point in moving out a contract to open up the cap space now when they could do it at the deadline. Its essentially “wasting that $1.5MM” for the next 4 months. Its likely easier at the deadline to get team to take on short term cap commitments in order to open up the space as well.
5) On the broadcast, I think it was Stauffer a few days ago that said the four teams are working together and splitting the production costs.
GordieHoweHatTrick
September 18, 2022 12:55 pm
There are many permutations in that top nine that also look very good!!
Kenny confirmed in that Drance interview that Jason Demers has been offered a PTO
Obviously we got Jason Demers who agreed to a PTO. He was with Woodcroft in San Jose. He’s a veteran defenceman and you never know. So we’ll see with more PTOs.
OriginalPouzar
September 18, 2022 11:39 am
1) While I think it was take something spectacular for Bourgault to not start the season in Bakersfield, training camp will be very interesting and I wonder if he will make Holland think about keeping him on the opening roster submission given his $175K of potential performance bonuses. If he does enough to make management think he’s a legit call-up option this season, they won’t want his cap hit increased to $1.1MM by not being on the opening submission (prior to assignment).
2) Holloway’s play on the ice matching up with his verbal is heartening. Those that watch the AHL games advised that his box-cars undervalued his impact on the ice and it was clear for 2/3 of last season that his wrist was, at least, effecting his shooting. Holloway said on Friday that for most of last season he couldn’t shoot but he also had little strength in the wrist and it was his low hand on the stick so he had trouble in puck battles, etc.
It really is impressive how impactful he was at the AHL level as a rookie given how limited he was and seeing him fully healthy (seemingly) is fantastic and a great arrow.
3) I do think its notable that, even though his wrist is 100% (seemingly), he is still playing the wing and, while Hamblin is the veteran, he is also a C/W who plays lots of wing. They really don’t seem to consider C as an option for Holloway at all at this point.
4) We see some Taylor Hall in Holloway’s skating but I think we also see it a bit in his “rambunctiousness” which can border on a bit of recklessness at times – when you are going 100 miles an hour (that motor) all the time, I think it can get a bit chaotic. I wonder if Holloway will need to learn to reign it in a bit over time in order to avoid injury (in particular when he’s banging around with bigger man bodies).
5) I’ve been talking about Kessleing since he was still back in college and that he has a high ceiling give his size, skating and raw skills. He had a great first full year pro as far as development goes and it looks like he wants to take that next step this season – looks like he wants to up his “impact on the game”, being more physical, etc. – he should play top 4 all season long for Bakersfield. Understated prospect that fans are starting to learn about. He’s still “filling out” and becoming a man – wait until he puts on 12 pounds in an off-season….
6) We’ve been talking about Wanner earning more ice time in the 2nd half (and playoffs) with Moose Jaw last year and playing that aggrieve 2-way style with an offensive spike late and in the playoffs. We are seeing this player develop in real time but he’s another RD with size, speed, aggressiveness and a range of skills. Will be interesting to see how he does in a split squad game before returning to Moose Jaw. He’s already done enough to earn an ELC for next season and, for a 7th round pick, its already a success.
7) Through two games, I have seen Philp as “more powerful” with the puck than I anticipated – some strong rushes up the middle with skill. I’ve been impressed. At the same time, he’s 24 and should be noticeable in these games. Its tough to know how much performances by older players like Philp and Hamblin really mean, right?
8) Didn’t notice Chiasson too many times but he did make a handful of really skilled passes in the offensive zone. A “real prospect” but it will be a journey.
9) Petrov mentioned nerves heading in and I think we know that the CHL will be the right place for him this season – he’s still a teenager lets remember.
jp
September 18, 2022 11:28 am
I only caught a bit of the game last night, and only the highlights from Friday.
I feel like the Bourg is a bit of a hybrid between Eberle and Yamamoto.
A bit undersized. Very good skater, but without separation speed.
Pretty similar game to Eberle with the puck on his stick, can finish and make plays.
Shades of Yamamoto on the forecheck and without the puck. As LT said, he consistently turned pucks over. Great stick, and very disruptive.
Just got home from a trip in time to see the Flames dominating the last couple of minutes of the 1st period.
In a game that looked more like pond hockey than league play I saw lots of guys show flashes of individual skill and effort that bodes well for the future but those are the two guys that need to be on the team from the beginning and for the the entire season imo.
Broberg asked to play in the tournament, its several steps down for him. I see him warming up, getting in some reps, stay away from injury, and not trying to showcase himself at all.
If you didn’t know him, you may not be overly impressed. So the fact that these scouts loved his play, im impressed.
I’m not sure it would really matter much as the main issue with a short roster at the cap isn’t really speed of call-up but that there is no cap space for a call-up.
If a player is out short term (anything less than LTIR eligible), they wouldn’t have the cap space to bring someone up to replace.
The exception is if they send another healthy body down in conjunction with the call up.
Something has to happen? If your Holland why hamstring yourself on purpose? Hypothetically what happens if 2 players catch the flu the kind that lays you out for 2-4 days??
Something has to happen? If your Holland why hamstring yourself on purpose? Hypothetically what happens if 2 players catch the flu the kind that lays you out for 2-4 days??
Firstly, if a player is only going to be out 2-4 days, they couldn’t put them on IR, well, not if they want them in the lineup, 5-6 days later.
With that said, regular IR only opens up a roster spot, doesn’t help the cap at all and they likely have an open roster spot given they are running short.
With that said, they couldn’t call up a player due to not having the cap space so they would need to play short a game.
With that said, after having played short a game, they could call up a player on an emergency basis with cap relief – the player needs to be a cap hit of $850K or less (so no Holloway or Bourgault, for example).
————-
To the first question, he’s not “hamstringing himself on purpose”, he’s trying not to weaken the team which would be the case by disposing of a current roster player.
He may start the season with a roster short of 23 but need to shift out some cap once we get in to the season and injuries/illness pile up. I’m not sure there is any benefit of doing it now (unless the right deal comes along, or right sequence of transactions).
Love how Holland brought back the Young Stars tourney.
tough to separate prospects in an nhl camp, competition is too high.
BornInAGretzkyJersey
September 18, 2022 10:31 am
The big three were wheeling at will, which is nice to see but hardly surprising.
Some standouts for me were Wanner, Kesselring, and Engaras. I didn’t expect to see how subtly smart Filip is in the last possible moment of a dying play.
What a treat it is to see a pulse out of players plucked from the depths of the draft.
teddyturnbuckle
September 18, 2022 10:17 am
The broadcast quality has come a long way in these rookie tournaments lol. I remember it years ago looking like it was live on a camcorder and not following the play.
I guess what I don’t understand is why Samarukov is nessecary on LT’s roster . I mean it would be a 22 man roster but it would also be $775 000 plus the $65,000 under the cap . Just a little more breathing room . I mean I get it he doesn’t want to lose him to waivers. But the next question is would they lose him to waivers and would he be missed if he was lost to waivers ?
I mean, if you need that Samorukov cap space for something different at a later point he can be waived then.
The team is in LTIR, so they won’t accrue cap through the season in either case.
The only difference in waiving him now is you KNOW he will be subject to waivers. If you wait, that may or may not be necessary, and you likely also have more information about how valuable the player is to your team and others.
Not much cap space beyond the 23, but you’ll need to trade someone in addition to Foegele if you want 23 players AND cap to spare on top of that (I’m guessing you mis-counted?).
If you’re going into LTIR, isn’t the goal to be as close to the cap as possible? Essentially, any trade is going to have to be dollar in, dollar out – like last year.
Well if that’s all it takes for a 23 man roster, then attach a pick to Foegele and get er done.
I am a little worried it’s going to take a 2nd rounder to move him though.
Ah, yes, of course. But I don’t think he needs to trade anybody in order to sign McLeod does he?
There may be a link in terms of term and cap hit for McLeod but I think it is more in terms of preference than necessity. I think McLeod shows up for TC even if not signed.
Yeah, McLeod is obviously valued by management and for good reason. I have no doubt that has been explained to him even as he is going to have to take less this year for the team.
I am intrigued to see what Holland does to get out of this.
Oh, I don’t think that McLeod would be at camp if he doesn’t have a contract – that’s extremely rare these days, i believe.
At the same time, I don’t think we’ll find out the answer to that question.
I really hope Holland doesn’t have to grind him down to like $800K, I mean, that’s a comp cut over last season. If they do have to do that, this is a rare time where I would actually hope they have an unofficial deal in place, a Lebanc type situation, potentially even to be made official in January, when it can be.
Just eyeballing, but looks doable on a 22 man roster as posted. JUST under the cap by a hair I think?
Todd Macallan
September 18, 2022 9:17 am
I don’t have much to add to those astute observations above, I really saw each player pretty much the same. A few standouts by my eye, with an effort to avoid a wall of text similar to yesterday’s:
Holloway: nothing else to say, best player on the ice. Where Borg’s most elite skill is his hockey IQ, Holloway’s is his motor and that is not to diminish his other considerable skills. Oh and the wrist looks more than fine. May need to invest in a #55 jersey early this season, especially if Gazzola’s reports of the new reverse retro McFarlane jerseys are true.
Agree in particular on Wright and Engaras, maybe the most pleasant surprises for me so far. The focus is on the big guns, and rightfully so, they have been fantastic, but it can’t be overstated how some of these late picks and camp invites are showing early on here. Speaking of……
Wanner continues to impress, to the point where Bob last night said to “not be surpised” if the Oilers sign him in the next couple weeks, and I’d be all for that. I feel he has the potential for a significant breakout year, and have similar thoughts/hopes for Chiasson and Mike “Everyday I’m Kesseling” Kesselring.
Finally, on Schaefer: totally agree this wasn’t his time regardless, but I continue to see a few small heartening points in his overall quiet games so far. His effort and smarts in the d zone is impressive for a young player, he gets into shooting lanes well. Also, I had to laugh when late in the 3rd he was flying down the LW and the poor Flames dman (Bovine, or something) who is apparently known for big hits in the Q, attempted to lay a hip check and just bounced off the Reid Rocket, who kept on trucking and barely slowed down.
Looking forward to game 3 being at a watchable time here out east, and as much as I love watching that top line, I’m hoping for more prime minutes for Schaefer, Petrov, Chiasson and Tullio instead, along with the hopeful return of Savoie.
I think the flames dman was Levigne. Remember that attempted hit as well. Schaefer’s name was mentioned lots during the commentary last night, for good things. Plus, every scrum, he seemed to get right in the middle of it. Being one of the youngest guys didn’t deter him from the rough stuff.
My degrees n Kelvin… there’s no zero like absolute zero!
leadfarmer
September 18, 2022 8:39 am
I’ve had no doubt in my mind that Holloway wins the 3LW job. People were worried about the leftorium but the leftorium has moved from D to wing
Long live the leftorium
NEW for The Athletic: Through four offseasons, the Oilers under general manager Ken Holland have developed a unique procurement model. What’s he building in there?
https://theathletic.com/3604704/2022/09/19/edmonton-oilers-holland-draft-prospects-signings/
re: Bourgault:
It’s very rare for a player in the QMJHL in his draft+1 Season who scored between 1.49 and 1.99 pts/gp (+/- .25 pts/gp from Bourgault) to make the NHL in his draft+2 season. Since the 2008 draft, only Mercer has done it. Only Huberdeau and Meier have made it in their Draft+3 season. Grigorenko, Coyle, Sprong, Kucherov, Comtois, Palat, and Batherson made it in their Draft+4 season. Ivan Barbashev made it in his Draft+5 season. Then a few late bloomers made it in their Draft+6 to Draft+8 Seasons: E Svechnikov, Danault, Hoffman, Byron. Ottawa held onto Hoffman long enough to see him thrive. But Chicago let Danault go, and Calgary let Byron go before they took off. Detroit has seen Svechnikov improve last season in Winnipeg. We’ll see if he takes another step this year.
But, then again, Bourgault looks pretty good out there. Maybe he’ll join Mercer. Even D+3 seems a bit rare and only accomplished by 2 players who went #3, and #9 overall in the draft. D+4 seems the most likely scenario based on this unscientific gathering of data, especially on a team that is getting tougher to crack.
Seeing this also gives me more hope for Lavoie, who is also just within .25pts/gp of Baourgault and has had 2 of those important development seasons hampered by COVID and now an injury. Lavoie is going into his D+4 season.
This is insightful and must say something about the quality of the Q, as I’m guessing players with those numbers show more success when coming out of the OHL or WHL. Given Bourgault’s size and playing style I think he would benefit from more time to gain strength.
I also hope this means that the oilers won’t give up on Lavoie. If I recall correctly his even strength scoring last year was actually not bad. Let’s hope he doesn’t miss too much time this year.
I’m sorry to crap on your work a bit, but the only 3 players I looked at (Kucherov, Coyle and Danault) scored in your pts/game range for the 1st time in their draft +2 seasons (not draft +1 like Bourgault). Kucherov and Coyle also played 52 and 37 games in the NHL the next season (their draft +3).
I’m not sure about the other players you list, but I think you may be selling Bourgault short on both ends (how early he scored 1.74 pts/game, and how soon after that the comps you picked made it to the NHL).
It’s OK though, the Bourg will assimilate you sooner than later 🙂
No problem. Yeah, I was trying to do this quickly so there may be some mistakes. I organized them by their 19-year-old seasons as a proxy for D+1, which I know will sometimes be off. So I searched for 19-year-old seasons (as defined by Elite Prospects) and set cutoffs at .25 pts/GP above Bourgault and below). Then I went to their page and looked at when they were drafted and what I thought was their D+1 season and went up from there. I didn’t count any player as having made it to the NHL until they played an entire season or nearly a full season in the NHL so those split seasons didn’t count by the way I was tracking it. Therefore Kucherov and Coyle still became full-time NHLers in their D+4 seasons. Bourgault may get some NHL time this season or next but I doubt he’ll play an entire season until his D+3 or even his D+4 season.
I guess that means Kucherov, Coyle, and Danault didn’t turn 19 until their D+2 seasons.
So I guess Kucherov, Coyle and Danault shouldn’t be included in the list as they didn’t score within that range in the Q in their D+1.
Updated:
D+2: Mercer
D+3: Huberdeau, Meier
D+4: Grigorenko, Sprong, Comtois, Palat, Batherson
D+5: Barbashev
D+6,7,8: E Svechnikov, Hoffman, Byron.
Barbashev (1.67pts/GP, #33 in ’14) and Grigorenko (1.7pts/GP, #12 in ’12) are good comparables for Draft pedigree and D+1 scoring.
The positive thing about the Mercer comparable (1.57, #18 in ’20) is that Bourgault outscored him and it is more recent and therefore a better gauge of the quality of the present-day Q. They were drafted quite close, too (#18 & #22). Hopefully, that’s it and Bourgault outplays Mercer.
Thanks for explaining, and makes sense if you used an age cutoff.
Agree Bourgault won’t be a full time NHLer this year, but I think next year/draft+3 is a very real possibility.
Huberdeau was draft +2.
Any updates on Carter Savoie? Hoping its not a serious injury
I have a theory and I’ll post it tomorrow morning as well. The team is coming back with almost all of the members from last season. Mike Smith was very clearly well respected and looked up to by the core. In the event Skinner falters, you know full well Smith will be rehabbing and in the gym as often as he feels on KH’s Zetterberg Island,and through the process of a season there is enough buffer room by moving a player that cap room can be generated. Don’t put it past KH to create a situation that post trade deadling he can approach the end of the season and into 22-23 playoffs with a Campbell/Smith combo.
The guy who gave his defencemen dirty looks after he let it in weak ones?? The injured old man that cost them a shot at the Cup?? That guy?
Not unless Holland desperately desires to lose.
Are you thinking they’ll be winning every game by 7 and he’ll want to ease up by allowing some floaters from 2 zones over maybe??
Doesn’t seem necessary.
Tyler Wright referred to Smith as ‘retired’ rather than on LTIR in an interview earlier today.
He ain’t coming back, imo.
Battling Mike battled his way past Calgary but in the process he emptied the tank. Mikey is done it’s over he’s got 5 kids to Coach. The Mike and Mikko era is over it’s Jack and Stuart’s time to shine.
I’m not sure Mike Smith cost the Oilers a shot at the cup. I do remember him being the best goalie in the league for 6 weeks, coinciding with the team moving from outside the playoffs to 2nd in the division.
As far as coming back mid-season goes, I can’t tell you how Mike feels or what goes on in his head but only that Seravelli and Friedman have both talked about him being much more banged up during the playoffs than we know. Friedman was very clear that he wished Smith would let the public know as we’d be blown away of what he was playing through.
I type the above mainly to note that I don’t think he’s “just taking a break” but to point out that his body is really beat up (from accounts) and, also, a 30 year old player would have trouble taking 8 months off and then deciding to get in to shape and join a team for a playoff run – seem highly unreasonable to think the over 40 Smith will be attempting the same.
Iain MacIntyre @imacSportsnet
As the Canucks continue to seek help on defence ahead of the regular season, a name on the radar is Carolina Hurricanes RD Ethan Bear.
The 25 yo former Oiler is on a one-year contract at $2.2M and will be an RFA in 2023.
Hopefully this happens for Ethan, a clear path to a top-4 role with the only guy in his way Brogan Rafferty.
Interesting.
The Canucks have been planning on Quinn Hughes switching to the right side with OEL playing 1LD.
I would imagine they would be looking at Bear as #3RD behind Hughes, and Myers, opening up a spot for Rathbone at 3LD.
Might work.
He’s also a good insurance policy against the inevitable Myers regression.
Bears contract expires before Myers so not sure that would be a factor.
Tucker Poolman is also reportedly healthy so that may complicate things.
Myers effectiveness probably doesn’t last his contract.
Two years left.
Has a $5 million signing bonus next season sir only $1 million in salary.
Easy to move.
Bear can pass him, do not care about Myers contract. I’m talking specifically about Myers as second pair RH (which you mentioned). Myers had a fine year, but the previous campaigns were uneven.
I expect he can too.
Yeah 6 mil cap hits are easy to move. Sure they are
By next year there is gonna very few teams able to take on cap and a lot of teams trying to dump cap on them. So if you think 6 mil cap will be given away think again
There are many ways to dispose of a cap hit.
Easy to move with a sweetener, maybe.
I did not know about the intended closure of the comments section and how perilously close we came to disintegration until I read JM’s comment below.
I would like to say thank you to everyone who posted their feelings, especially their deep gratitude to LT. You are messengers from my own heart. And clearly your trust and openness to share what this place means to all of us, have saved the blog. Thank you so much for being there from those of us who were not.
And a special Thank-you to you, LT, for everything you have done for us over the years, but also for continuing to exemplify a remarkable approach to life. Your willingness and courage to allow your heart to change shines and calls as a standard to us all.
Thank you for seeing how we feel about this place, and trusting back enough to allow, if I may be pretentious, the dialogos to continue.
As humans, it’s all we really have.
I believe the blog also stopped working entirely without the comments section:
He fought the blog and the blog won!
1) Bruce Curlock was on Rishaug’s Got Yer’ Back podcast. He’s in Penticton and it was a great 10 minutes of some of his insights – he really is a “must follow” in my opinion for prospect analysis.
2) Rishaug also had a 1 on 1 with Broberg in the pod. Philip’s soft spoken but he’s honest and a good listen.
3) I was going to mention this earlier today but forgot and Rishaug reminded me when he read one of Holland’s quote’s in Drance’s article – when Holland was talking about at least one young d-men making the team and hopefully more than one push, he listed off: Broberg, Samorukov, Dehanais, Niemelainen and Kesselring – notable by his absence to me was Phil Kemp (with Kesselring’s inclusion in the group) – truth be told, Kesselring has separated himself from Kemp (and was always more of a “real prospect” in my mind the entire time).
4) Also, on Holland’s quote: he mentioned having “6 d-men plus Ryan Murray” – I think Murray is going to play quite a few games, on both left and right side and maybe even up and down the lineup a bit, but I do think Holland has him outside the starting lineup if everything breaks as planned.
Yeah it’s notable for sure that Holland mentioned Kesselring in that group. His inclusion is the change (I don’t believe he or Kemp have been mentioned with that group pushing for spots before now). Seems the big man is getting himself noticed by the right people.
On Murray and playing RD, I also thought it was notable that DNB (in his article a couple of days ago) mentioned a team source indicated Broberg would move to the right side of Barrie were to be traded.
Yes, I was going to mention in my post that this was the first time I had heard the org mention Kesslering in the “pushing group” – it was more of an inclusion for Kesselring then an exclusion for Kemp but I guess the point was really that there seem to be separation between the two (they have generally been linked together for a bit now).
It would be a bit odd to see Broberg over on the right ahead of Murray as I’ve heard Broberg say twice now that he’s more comfortable on the left side (on Rishaug’s GYB pod today) and he confirmed that he didn’t play any right side in the AHL and in Europe is was mostly when he was younger.
I mean, filling in for a few games here or there, sure, but as a term solution, at this point, seems aggressive, right?
Yes, Kesselring and Kemp have been usually linked, and this does appears to be a sign of some separation (as was also clear watching them play).
I didn’t realize Broberg hadn’t played much RD in the SHL, thought he had. But DNB’s mention of it presumably does mean something. And he did play about 30% of his minutes last year with one of Keith, Niemalainen, Lagesson or Nurse. I think he played RD in most of those. Whatever the case, the org. does seem to think it’s an option.
September 3 – LT announces the closure of the Comments section.
September 4 – Salvation Day – Decision to close the Comments section is reversed. LT notes “The biggest problems we have are in the morning, when some posters simply overrun the blog ….”
September 11 – Original Pouzar posts – “I am trying to limit my posts …”.
September 18 – jm363561 posts – ”Please respect our gracious host’s concerns. You are putting the Comments section at risk.”
It’s only 2 posts. LT has approved them both.
everyone is trying.
keep it up fellas. Let’s keep this show on the road.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g07Xxr20L9s
Hunters death march should have one more guesstimate, rather then yaks goals amounts, connors, or drais, it should be how many times this year OP’s daily posts have a larger word count then LTs daily blog article.
That, is something that would be interesting to say the least.
*This is a joke – nothing personal. Sarcasm meters don’t work in comment sections.
No, I won’t pull the comments section again. I have made moves to alter the comments section and my hope is that we have a more streamlined daily interaction. I think we’re fine.
Is the Vancouver game happening today or was I mistaken? I see no stream anywhere.
Tomorrow (Monday) at 3:30 (mountain).
I’m thinking Broberg, Holloway may get the game off (but that’s pure speculation).
oh I did get it wrong, thanks for the update
Vancouver 3 Jets 1 8 minutes to go in the second period
Savoie just “walked” into the Oilers management section on crutches no obvious cast.
We walked over to the rink with the ref that took the puck off the mush in the Calgary v. Jet on on Friday. No lost teeth and in a good spirit
That’s a remarkable roster:
The 2017-2019 swoon may ultimately provide the value-contracts necessary to round out a championship team.
It’s the new NHL the middle class are getting squeezed to bare bones are out of the league.
The high end players have been getting huge raises while the cap has been barely climbing. There is only so much to go around.
1) Holloway very well could prove to the best current 3LW in the org but I think we’ve learned not to put much stock in actual NHL exhibition games let alone prospect games, right? One step at a time and he killed his half AHL season step and is now killing prospect camp. Next step, his first main camp on-ice session.
Taking away a player out move for cap structuring (which seems somewhat unlikely at this point), there are two legit and substantial established 3LW options ahead of him – Foegele and Janmark. That’s quite the hurdle to jump but, holy hell, what a fantastic option for injury call-up. Not only a player that is very likely NHL ready but highly reasonably likely to be able to provide an impact upon call-up.
2) I heard Stauff talking about Wanner maybe getting a contract and I thought “no-brainer” – he’s already done enough to earn an ELC and therefore exceeded expectations for a 7th rounder. He turns 20 in March so there is no rush to get the deal done before the end of the calendar year for future slide purposes. Whether he signs tomorrow or in May, the first year will kick in next season – no slide next year.
3) I’m not sure the issue with Samorukov on the roster presuming he’s earned the spot. To the extent they need a forward call-up due to an injury (that isn’t an LTIR injury), they can waive/assign Samourkov at that time to call up a Benson or Griffith or Shore or McKegg or Malone or whoever.
Yes, losing Samorukov on waivers would matter. This player has been drafted and developed and is on the cusp of helping the organization at the NHL level. He has a skill-set that the organization really could use in the defensive group. People love Niemo due to his hitting but Samorukov is a great body-checker, in the open ice, and he’s a big, strong and aggressive defender with a strong 2-way game. I think he’s simply better than Deharnais and Niemelainen and if he could just stay healthy, I think he’ll prove it to Oiler fans.
4) The Oilers will be in LTIR again and a contending team (i.e. cap team) – there simply won’t be any excess cap space at the deadline. If they stay, say, $1.5MM under their cap now, they will still only have $1.5MM of cap space at the deadline – they don’t get to accrue anything with that cap space like a team that isn’t in LTIR would (where it would become like $6MM at the deadline if they accrued daily). No point in moving out a contract to open up the cap space now when they could do it at the deadline. Its essentially “wasting that $1.5MM” for the next 4 months. Its likely easier at the deadline to get team to take on short term cap commitments in order to open up the space as well.
5) On the broadcast, I think it was Stauffer a few days ago that said the four teams are working together and splitting the production costs.
There are many permutations in that top nine that also look very good!!
Kenny confirmed in that Drance interview that Jason Demers has been offered a PTO
Obviously we got Jason Demers who agreed to a PTO. He was with Woodcroft in San Jose. He’s a veteran defenceman and you never know. So we’ll see with more PTOs.
1) While I think it was take something spectacular for Bourgault to not start the season in Bakersfield, training camp will be very interesting and I wonder if he will make Holland think about keeping him on the opening roster submission given his $175K of potential performance bonuses. If he does enough to make management think he’s a legit call-up option this season, they won’t want his cap hit increased to $1.1MM by not being on the opening submission (prior to assignment).
2) Holloway’s play on the ice matching up with his verbal is heartening. Those that watch the AHL games advised that his box-cars undervalued his impact on the ice and it was clear for 2/3 of last season that his wrist was, at least, effecting his shooting. Holloway said on Friday that for most of last season he couldn’t shoot but he also had little strength in the wrist and it was his low hand on the stick so he had trouble in puck battles, etc.
It really is impressive how impactful he was at the AHL level as a rookie given how limited he was and seeing him fully healthy (seemingly) is fantastic and a great arrow.
3) I do think its notable that, even though his wrist is 100% (seemingly), he is still playing the wing and, while Hamblin is the veteran, he is also a C/W who plays lots of wing. They really don’t seem to consider C as an option for Holloway at all at this point.
4) We see some Taylor Hall in Holloway’s skating but I think we also see it a bit in his “rambunctiousness” which can border on a bit of recklessness at times – when you are going 100 miles an hour (that motor) all the time, I think it can get a bit chaotic. I wonder if Holloway will need to learn to reign it in a bit over time in order to avoid injury (in particular when he’s banging around with bigger man bodies).
5) I’ve been talking about Kessleing since he was still back in college and that he has a high ceiling give his size, skating and raw skills. He had a great first full year pro as far as development goes and it looks like he wants to take that next step this season – looks like he wants to up his “impact on the game”, being more physical, etc. – he should play top 4 all season long for Bakersfield. Understated prospect that fans are starting to learn about. He’s still “filling out” and becoming a man – wait until he puts on 12 pounds in an off-season….
6) We’ve been talking about Wanner earning more ice time in the 2nd half (and playoffs) with Moose Jaw last year and playing that aggrieve 2-way style with an offensive spike late and in the playoffs. We are seeing this player develop in real time but he’s another RD with size, speed, aggressiveness and a range of skills. Will be interesting to see how he does in a split squad game before returning to Moose Jaw. He’s already done enough to earn an ELC for next season and, for a 7th round pick, its already a success.
7) Through two games, I have seen Philp as “more powerful” with the puck than I anticipated – some strong rushes up the middle with skill. I’ve been impressed. At the same time, he’s 24 and should be noticeable in these games. Its tough to know how much performances by older players like Philp and Hamblin really mean, right?
8) Didn’t notice Chiasson too many times but he did make a handful of really skilled passes in the offensive zone. A “real prospect” but it will be a journey.
9) Petrov mentioned nerves heading in and I think we know that the CHL will be the right place for him this season – he’s still a teenager lets remember.
I only caught a bit of the game last night, and only the highlights from Friday.
I feel like the Bourg is a bit of a hybrid between Eberle and Yamamoto.
A bit undersized. Very good skater, but without separation speed.
Pretty similar game to Eberle with the puck on his stick, can finish and make plays.
Shades of Yamamoto on the forecheck and without the puck. As LT said, he consistently turned pucks over. Great stick, and very disruptive.
Excited to see how high this guy can fly.
If you’re interested, the archived full games are up now on the Oilers YouTube channel
Thanks, though not sure if I’ll have time. I’m sure others will take advantage even I don’t, so thanks for passing it on!
We had a beer after the game with some Canuck scouts – they loved Holloway, but spent lots of time on how strong and how Broberg controls the game.
we had breakfast with some Jet’s scouts this morning – they raved about Broberg’s impact on the game.
Just got home from a trip in time to see the Flames dominating the last couple of minutes of the 1st period.
In a game that looked more like pond hockey than league play I saw lots of guys show flashes of individual skill and effort that bodes well for the future but those are the two guys that need to be on the team from the beginning and for the the entire season imo.
I find this intel very interesting.
Broberg asked to play in the tournament, its several steps down for him. I see him warming up, getting in some reps, stay away from injury, and not trying to showcase himself at all.
If you didn’t know him, you may not be overly impressed. So the fact that these scouts loved his play, im impressed.
Cool. Thanks for sharing.
Thomas Drance with a Holland interview from last night.
It appears it will be a roster with fewer than 23.
https://theathletic.com/3603665/2022/09/18/oilers-ken-holland-interview/?source=user_shared_article
Oilers start with 6 home games I wonder if this matters in someway with the roster numbers to begin the year??
I’m not sure it would really matter much as the main issue with a short roster at the cap isn’t really speed of call-up but that there is no cap space for a call-up.
If a player is out short term (anything less than LTIR eligible), they wouldn’t have the cap space to bring someone up to replace.
The exception is if they send another healthy body down in conjunction with the call up.
Something has to happen? If your Holland why hamstring yourself on purpose? Hypothetically what happens if 2 players catch the flu the kind that lays you out for 2-4 days??
Firstly, if a player is only going to be out 2-4 days, they couldn’t put them on IR, well, not if they want them in the lineup, 5-6 days later.
With that said, regular IR only opens up a roster spot, doesn’t help the cap at all and they likely have an open roster spot given they are running short.
With that said, they couldn’t call up a player due to not having the cap space so they would need to play short a game.
With that said, after having played short a game, they could call up a player on an emergency basis with cap relief – the player needs to be a cap hit of $850K or less (so no Holloway or Bourgault, for example).
————-
To the first question, he’s not “hamstringing himself on purpose”, he’s trying not to weaken the team which would be the case by disposing of a current roster player.
He may start the season with a roster short of 23 but need to shift out some cap once we get in to the season and injuries/illness pile up. I’m not sure there is any benefit of doing it now (unless the right deal comes along, or right sequence of transactions).
Thanks for making it a little more clear.
Love how Holland brought back the Young Stars tourney.
tough to separate prospects in an nhl camp, competition is too high.
The big three were wheeling at will, which is nice to see but hardly surprising.
Some standouts for me were Wanner, Kesselring, and Engaras. I didn’t expect to see how subtly smart Filip is in the last possible moment of a dying play.
What a treat it is to see a pulse out of players plucked from the depths of the draft.
The broadcast quality has come a long way in these rookie tournaments lol. I remember it years ago looking like it was live on a camcorder and not following the play.
Was thinking the same thing. Huge improvement from a few years ago.
It was great last night. Bob S is a decent PbP guy too.
Better than Jack.
Bob is excellent, Cam Moon is excellent and Jack is outstanding on television. I don’t know how this is going to shake out.
How far over the cap is the roster you posted today?
It’s compliant, with I believe $85k to spare.
Accomplished by trading Foegele and signing McLeod for $800k.
I guess what I don’t understand is why Samarukov is nessecary on LT’s roster . I mean it would be a 22 man roster but it would also be $775 000 plus the $65,000 under the cap . Just a little more breathing room . I mean I get it he doesn’t want to lose him to waivers. But the next question is would they lose him to waivers and would he be missed if he was lost to waivers ?
I mean, if you need that Samorukov cap space for something different at a later point he can be waived then.
The team is in LTIR, so they won’t accrue cap through the season in either case.
The only difference in waiving him now is you KNOW he will be subject to waivers. If you wait, that may or may not be necessary, and you likely also have more information about how valuable the player is to your team and others.
Assuming that roster has Foegle traded for picks saving cap space.
More likely a pick going the other way with Foegele.
Very few teams with the cap space to absorb his cap hit and those that do won’t be motivated to do so.
It’s under by about $65,000.
I don’t like it. Way too close for comfort.
Better park a private jet in Bakersfield
It’s a 23-man roster, what are you hoping for?
Not much cap space beyond the 23, but you’ll need to trade someone in addition to Foegele if you want 23 players AND cap to spare on top of that (I’m guessing you mis-counted?).
There are 23 players on the roster.
If you’re going into LTIR, isn’t the goal to be as close to the cap as possible? Essentially, any trade is going to have to be dollar in, dollar out – like last year.
Well I’d like a little more cap space for trade deadline
Well if that’s all it takes for a 23 man roster, then attach a pick to Foegele and get er done.
I am a little worried it’s going to take a 2nd rounder to move him though.
I doubt Holland is going to make any move until all of the evidence that training cap can provide has been provided.
It’s going to cost but no reason to move hastily at this point imo.
Has to sign McLeod, and it’s a good guess he’s tied to possible moves.
Ah, yes, of course. But I don’t think he needs to trade anybody in order to sign McLeod does he?
There may be a link in terms of term and cap hit for McLeod but I think it is more in terms of preference than necessity. I think McLeod shows up for TC even if not signed.
No sir. I think they want to do right by McLeod, though.
Yeah, McLeod is obviously valued by management and for good reason. I have no doubt that has been explained to him even as he is going to have to take less this year for the team.
I am intrigued to see what Holland does to get out of this.
Oh, I don’t think that McLeod would be at camp if he doesn’t have a contract – that’s extremely rare these days, i believe.
At the same time, I don’t think we’ll find out the answer to that question.
I really hope Holland doesn’t have to grind him down to like $800K, I mean, that’s a comp cut over last season. If they do have to do that, this is a rare time where I would actually hope they have an unofficial deal in place, a Lebanc type situation, potentially even to be made official in January, when it can be.
Just eyeballing, but looks doable on a 22 man roster as posted. JUST under the cap by a hair I think?
I don’t have much to add to those astute observations above, I really saw each player pretty much the same. A few standouts by my eye, with an effort to avoid a wall of text similar to yesterday’s:
Holloway: nothing else to say, best player on the ice. Where Borg’s most elite skill is his hockey IQ, Holloway’s is his motor and that is not to diminish his other considerable skills. Oh and the wrist looks more than fine. May need to invest in a #55 jersey early this season, especially if Gazzola’s reports of the new reverse retro McFarlane jerseys are true.
Agree in particular on Wright and Engaras, maybe the most pleasant surprises for me so far. The focus is on the big guns, and rightfully so, they have been fantastic, but it can’t be overstated how some of these late picks and camp invites are showing early on here. Speaking of……
Wanner continues to impress, to the point where Bob last night said to “not be surpised” if the Oilers sign him in the next couple weeks, and I’d be all for that. I feel he has the potential for a significant breakout year, and have similar thoughts/hopes for Chiasson and Mike “Everyday I’m Kesseling” Kesselring.
Finally, on Schaefer: totally agree this wasn’t his time regardless, but I continue to see a few small heartening points in his overall quiet games so far. His effort and smarts in the d zone is impressive for a young player, he gets into shooting lanes well. Also, I had to laugh when late in the 3rd he was flying down the LW and the poor Flames dman (Bovine, or something) who is apparently known for big hits in the Q, attempted to lay a hip check and just bounced off the Reid Rocket, who kept on trucking and barely slowed down.
Looking forward to game 3 being at a watchable time here out east, and as much as I love watching that top line, I’m hoping for more prime minutes for Schaefer, Petrov, Chiasson and Tullio instead, along with the hopeful return of Savoie.
I think the flames dman was Levigne. Remember that attempted hit as well. Schaefer’s name was mentioned lots during the commentary last night, for good things. Plus, every scrum, he seemed to get right in the middle of it. Being one of the youngest guys didn’t deter him from the rough stuff.
Red Rocket, more like a fast tractor, I think of a red Canadian made tractor like a Massey-Ferguson.
Meanwhile, Mahogany Massey Missile mayhaps misses the mark
>The game is afoot!
I often wonder what’s afoot with the metric system. Maybe that’s because I have a degree in Fahrenheit.
My degrees n Kelvin… there’s no zero like absolute zero!
I’ve had no doubt in my mind that Holloway wins the 3LW job. People were worried about the leftorium but the leftorium has moved from D to wing
Long live the leftorium