Stuart Skinner had a night. On an evening when the Winnipeg Jets dressed about 25 percent more NHL roster, it was Skinner who stood tallest and landed an invigorating victory for the young Oilers. Encouraging? God yes. Signs of things to come? We’ll see. For now, it’s enough to say that these young Oilers pushed for daylight and an NHL roster with some urgency. Making the roster choices difficult is good for everyone. This is going to be a fun and difficult day.
Are you ready for the cuts? The Oilers have some tough decisions, and with training camp for the Condors starting tomorrow, this is going to be a busy day. What will it look like? https://t.co/LWXYDWLKhI
Dylan Holloway was fire last night, delivering a brilliant assist on the late tying goal, two shots, several great passes that didn’t cash, iron twice, and strong play at both wing and center. Heavy minutes on both special teams. Brad Malone played well on the PK and gave the team some bite. Jesse Puljujarvi had five shots and a hit, but also turned over some pucks and made some fine passes. His play in overtime versus Brad Lambert was vintage Puljujarvi, he’s just so good at changing the possession arrow.
Tyler Benson scored a fabulous goal, maybe the nicest in his pro career. The depth chart at LW is overrun with talent, but he gave the staff something to think about with his performmance. Looked faster, I think it might have to do with stops and starts. I hope he lands in the NHL, don’t know if it’s Edmonton. James Hamblin was good on the dot and has his usual utility, it wouldn’t be shocking to see him in the NHL this season. This was the first time all preseason he looked average, and I mean that as a compliment. He’s pushed all the time. Jake Virtanen had his best game with the Oilers, he made a nice play on Benson’s goal but doesn’t touch the puck enough to compete with the other right-wingers on this roster. I don’t think he’ll stay.
Greg McKegg had a shot on goal (it had a chance) and won four of six on the dot. He’s never pushed above the fray, and that’s a tell, but could be a recall during the year. Luke Esposito got into a fight, got in the way (that’s a good thing) of pucks and people, and has elevated his status over what seems like five games in six nights. Xavier Bourgault had a shot, a reasonable chance and looked more confident when placed on another line. However, it’s clear he needs time in the AHL to build confidence and strength before his return.
The fourth line didn’t appear on the NST “lines” drop down so I had to go searching for it this morning. The trio played 5:06, 50 percent shots, 0-0 goals, 1-0 HDSC.
Mattias Janmark had a shot (HDSC) and made some deft passes to good areas. He hasn’t scored yet but has had chances, suspect we’ll see a goal in the next few games. Devin Shore scored the shootout winner, had a shot on goal and hit a couple of people. He lack of speed really stands out now, Oilers have never been faster. Does that make it easier to keep him? Don’t know. Derek Ryan took a penalty, drew a penalty, had a couple of great chanecs on the power play.
Oilers recored is now 3-2-0, with three games left to play in preseason.
Markus Niemelainen had one shot, three hits and two blocked shots at five-on-five while leading the Oilers in ice-time in the discipline. He played well defensively, and I like his mobility. I don’t know how they can send him back to be honest.
Mike Kesselring had two shots, two shot blocks and three hits. He is now beyond the stage where we can talk about him as a prospect and can openly discuss the idea of an NHL recall. It might not happen this winter, and there is some chaos, but he also brings offensive creativity and intelligence. Led defensemen with 10 defensive zone faceoffs.
Dmitri Samorukov led all players in TOI four-on-five, just shy of four minutes on the night (4:20 overall, including three-on-five). I think he’s done enough to make the decision difficult, but ultimately the organization is going to risk waivers on him. He has had a somewhat quiet camp, but teams are always looking for defensemen. A trade is also possible.
Phil Kemp had a shot, a hit and a couple of takeaways on the night. He was also a challenged by the NHL players on the Jets, suggesting a little more time in Bakersfield is necessary. I don’t know if he’ll have a long career, but his suppression ability is reflected in his Bakersfield even-strength goal differentials. He was 29-25 last year, I bet we see a spike.
Philip Broberg had an assist, two hits, two blocks, and five defensive zone faceoffs (to one offensive). It’s difficult to know what kind of test the coaching staff was giving him, but last night he seemed to settle in for the first time this camp. Lots of pressure on him, I remain convinced of this player.
Jason Demers scored a huge goal, and made almost all of the plays he could get to on the night. Older defensemen take penalties more often, Demers had two.
Stuart Skinner was beyond brilliant. Holy hell what a performance. Add to the fact there were plenty of NHL players on the Jets roster, and I found myself daydreaming about Skinner as a starter in the years to come. He’s an exciting development from the 2017 draft. Now if they can just get Samorukov to the AHL…..
NOTE!
Bakersfield’s training camp is tomorrow. Today is going to see men on waivers and some of the kids who don’t have to clear could get announced too. Fun, difficult day for all involved. It’s like that old ABC intro about “the thrill of victory, the agony of defeat” followed by the strangest music ever. That’s today.
Love it or hate it, I do not mind Stauffer being part of Oilers game broadcasts.
He voices his opinion when he thinks its required.
Refreshing, rather then appealing to corporate NHL.
OriginalPouzar
October 2, 2022 6:43 pm
Are we sure that Niemo has outplayed Broberg substantially?
I mean Broberg is near the top in CF% and FF% and 50% goals whereas Niemo is at the bottom for CF% and FF%, nearing 30% and 40% goals and his xGF% is also down near 30 (Broberg app 46%).
Both of them with a high percentage of offensive zone starts but Niemo higher (2nd on team).
TOI with stats – both have Demers as their most common and their most common forwards are both middling.
I know Niemo has thrown lots of hits and, really 3-4 games of on ice analytics is, well, what it is but I thought I’d throw the numbers out there.
I wonder if the eye-test analysis is somewhat skewed due to exceptions of each player? I mean, Broberg has been on the ice for 1 GA at 5 n 5 (and his GA/60 is 1.5 less than Nimeo)…..
I acknowledge the Niemo had. game matched against Perfetti and PLD.
Here’s the thing, Broberg is Hollands guy and he will get every opportunity. There is a big risk to confidence if you send Broberg down and keep Neimo. There will be growing pains but I believe you have to keep Broberg and tell Neimo to be ready.
I think almost the opposite. I think if Niemelainen clearly outplays Broberg through the rest of camp you almost have to give the roster spot to him.
There’s no waiver risk for Broberg, and many a 21-year old has returned to the minors for more seasoning. Holland has done that time and again with players in similar positions.
Niemo brings almost no offense to the plate, so he has to be water-tight defensively or he is a net negative. He’s getting better but clearly needs the better part of another year in the AHL to wring those mistakes out of his game. Love the hits but it doesn’t make up the the GA.
Tarkus
October 2, 2022 4:39 pm
Summarizing!
Only one point was had by an Oilers NA prospect this day, and it was an assist from the Deutschland Defender, Luca Munzenberger.
Though pointless, Maatta again demonstrated his prowess on the dot, going 18-for-28 (64.3%).
And Brind’Amour, whose pa was a pretty good FO man, was no slouch today either, going 14-for-24 (58.3%).
No updates until Humpday … what’s the maatta with you, Tarkus?!
Brogan Rafferty's Uncle Steve
October 2, 2022 4:38 pm
I have not watched any of the preseason (I cannot watch preseason, I have a bad case of Magnus Gretzky Paajarvi Syndrome)*, has Broberg actually been as poor as the internets have been telling me?
*Magnus Gretzky Paajarvi Syndrome (MGPS)– the afflicted individual thinks that every player who has a good game in the preseason will be the second coming of the great ice hockey player, Wayne Gretzky.
Not to my eye, no. I think his gaps are too wide and he isn’t able to adjust, but he still skates well straightaway. Bob was mentioning on the broadcast that he was musclebound or lifting Lorry’s or something, but the speed is there.
What HAS happened is that Niemelainen looks like an NHL player.
Early days. No panic. Broberg’s third period last night was good.
The good thing is there is nothing wrong with more time for Broberg in the minors. People who want to hammer him, will. Those who saw his progress in Bakersfield, and then later in the season with Edmonton, will know a few pre-season games doesn’t define a player.
Yup, Klefbom also played in the AHL in his draft plus 4 year – he turned out pretty good (well, until).
To be honest, I’d be surprised if he didn’t play the first handful of games, at least. I mean 2 of Niemo, Sammy, Murray need to be sent down to ensure Broberg is on the opening roster submission and I think we know it won’t be Murray (or at least I think we think we know….).
Broberg will be up, Niemo will be down and, its an easy switch after 1, 2, 5, 10 games if Broberg is looking like a tune up is warranted……
Of course, Oil Country will LOSE it and over-react and catstrophize but I don’t think Holland will hesitate if he thinks its the proper way forward.
I think the beauty of Holland’s offseason is that it fine if Broberg is not ready for the show immediately. The Murray signing was a nice piece of business.
Also: “a few pre-season games doesn’t define a player”… true that!
The good thing is there is nothing wrong with more time for Broberg in the minors. People who want to hammer him, will. Those who saw his progress in Bakersfield, and then later in the season with Edmonton, will know a few pre-season games doesn’t define a player.
Recall McLeod just one year ago.
He played his way off the team last pre-season. Then he made his way back a few weeks later and played well enough that you barely remember it even happened.
————-
Cool to hear that Niemalinen has so far taken the bull by the horns.
Really interesting from his post-game last week that hitting is NOT in his DNA, but that he added that element later.
That probably bodes well in terms of him working on his game and continuing to improve. Feels like that’s what we’re seeing so far this pre-season.
Last edited 2 years ago by jp
kgo
October 2, 2022 3:39 pm
There’s some irony to the Holloway Broberg situations.
Holland said Holloway would have to play his way into the top 6, didn’t want him riding the pine playing 8 mins a night would rather have him in Bako…looks like Holloway has done just that…made the top 6 on merit.
Broberg however, Holland was quoted as saying he would have to play his way off the team, and I think one could argue the same philosophy, that he’s better off in Bako playing 27 mins a night in all situations vs playing 13-15 mins with no special teaks up here….
I think it makes more sense to have Murray or Nemo up here playing PK, 13 mins while Nurse and Kulak chew up 24 / 20 mins respectively on the left side.
Broberg proved all he needed to prove in Bakersfield last year. One has to begin the NHL learning process with the growing pains on the 3rd pair. That cannot be learned in Bakersfield. A defensemen on the 3rd pair is not being stunted like a top 6 forward prospect on the 4th line.
The D is learning how to be a D. The top 6 forward prospect getting limited minutes in the bottom six is not getting the opportunity to hone his skills.
Proved? Deserve has got nothing to do with it. I disagree and think Broberg will develop further playing Elite 1st pair minutes in the AHL, I think all prospects should be stuck in the AHL until they dominate that league….assuming you have the depth of course.
Oakay, I think I understand… If you don’t spruce up your game with good special teaks, you and your twig are forced to ride the pine in the bush leagues.
I predict our 6&7D will be Murray and Nemo. Samurokov just not cutting it, Broberg too vanilla. Up front, Holloway and Benson seem to have the edge, plus so much upside. Shore works hard but seems he is all he will ever be right now. Cut/reassign the rest.
Lots of players can look good when the games are still at pre-season pace. The test is this week when the game pace begins to ramp up to regular season pace.
Will Foegele and a second get you Austin Watson (50% retained). Watson who is a 30 year UFA and a certain rental later in the year. This type of move will generate $2M cap space and replace Fogele’s contribution.
Last edited 2 years ago by YYCOil
LMHF#1
October 2, 2022 1:16 pm
We ready to talk about #80 in a much more appropriate tone than the dismissive one from the off-season and that acknowledges it was he that got the NHL time from among the fringe defencemen?
Better be. The big guy ain’t waiting for a chance – he’s taking it.
He looks very good. It’s preseason and last year’s numbers, in limited games, suggested he wasn’t quite ready. I hope he can deliver because that would solve many problems.
Oh, it gets better, “What’s worse is the fact it’s based on the Fremont troll. So their mascot is based on something meant to stop homeless people from sleeping under a bridge.”
Seattle, similar to pacific states, has a horrific homelessness issue. It’s quite sad.
Wait…. is Tryogan Rufflefeathers available at league min, 1 year deal, no acquisition cost? Fuckin let’s go for it, dump Barrie, throw him on the Top PP to keep Bouchard from bloating his next contract….what are we waiting for!?
Some prospects flame out into obscurity, but not him. His memory will live on and he will be in our hearts forever. He may have lost 1 fairweathered fan, but he gained a legion of fans in the process.
Rafaski at 26 was named by the Sporting News as the best player in the world not playing in the NHL after winning the Liga equivalent of the Ted Lindsay (the first not Finnish player to do so). Brogan Rafferty by 27, other than an AHL second team all star selection, has only managed to achieve the Harpers Hair Troll Hall of Ignominy designated to players ridiculously touted by HH himself to being better prospects than any recent Oiler draft selection could possibly be.
Maybe a few more AHL all star berths will come Raferty’s way, but I wouldn’t even count on that.
Last edited 2 years ago by Redbird62
defmn
October 2, 2022 12:02 pm
The following players were loaned to the AHL’s Bakersfield Condors:
A more accurate count and list. I got my count from the Oilers webpage that counted Desharnais who is injured and didn’t list Hamblin who doesn’t have a NHL contract.
Will Button’s credibility ever really recover from espousing the view for most of the time leading up to the 2015 draft that the choice between drafting McDavid or Eichel was a coin flip?
He basically called Bouchard a bust a year after his draft. He must be buddies with Holland because he did a 180 on Broberg and wouldn’t shut-up how Holland picked a no-doubter star in the making.
These are the top 9 forwards on the roster:
McDavid
Draisaitl
Kane
Hyman
Nuge
KY
JP
McLeod
Holloway
And I am hard pressed to think of a better top 9 in the league. Find a way to make it work. I think Foegele is the move to make…
I get the feeling (hoping maybe) JP is starting to get his game going (maybe he is watching/learning what Holloway is bringing). Still a little frustrating to watch at times when he has chances…
The value in the Murray signing is now very clear. He will be a reasonable 6/7 until one of the youngins cements a spot at 3LD.
This team looks like a contender from this angle. I have had my frustrations with some decisions KH made, but for the vast majority of his moves he has made very good decisions. Righting the ship after Chiarelli almost sank it is a commendable accomplishment.
RocklandRascal
October 2, 2022 11:28 am
“now if they can just find a way to get Samorukov to the AHL…”
Well I have a plan they could.
But first, we could try to keep him on the NHL roster first and give him more games and a real trial. If it doesn’t work then he gets sent down and won’t get claimed. this can be accomplished by making an opening day paper transaction of sending Bouchard down to AHL for opening night. (he’s doesn’t actually fly to Bakersfield) You’ll have Broberg on opening night roster for his bonus structure purpose. Then send him down next day for some further seasoning (klefbom got 9 AHL games beginning of his last time down there then became full-time NHLer) Keep Samorukov as your 7th d and play him when needed and make a final decision on him without having to loose him prematurely for nothing. You then call up Bouchard next day so he can play 2nd Rd.
Your opening roster looks like
Nurse ceci
Kulak Barrie
Broberg Murray
Samorukov
Then second day of season going forward
You would have:
There’s a Sammy on every team nobody is claiming him especially after watching Tippett sewer is value.
OriginalPouzar
October 2, 2022 10:52 am
1) My cut (assigned, released our waived) prediction for today: Esposito, Philp, Hamblin, Bourgault, McKegg, Kemp. I would add that RW on a PTO as released but I think he gets one more game as they do need some bodies still with 3 games left (and he’s not going to Bakersfield like the rest listed).
2) Samorukov may get waived today as I can’t see him being on the opening roster (Niemo has been getting more “NHL assignments” than him, and that’s a tell. I don’t disagree with some of the verbal that it might be easier to sneak him through.
3) I have time for Demers on a deal and waived/assigned to the Condors for some in-season depth but, at the same time, I’m not sure that Kesselring isn’t deserving of the 4RD right now (with Deharnais hurt).
4) Shore played well last night but his $850K hurts him. With Holloway on the opening, there isn’t room for Shore as 12F (with one of Janmark/Ryan waived assigned) – 12F has to be the likes of Benson, Malone I think.
5) I choose Benson – Malone is more valuable as the captain of the Condors notwithstanding his ability to play centre.
6) The last 3 games should be the most telling but its trending towards Holloway being in the lineup on October 12 on merit. I think it would behoove Woody to play him “up the lineup” in a game or two against an “NHL lineup” and see how it goes.
Last edited 2 years ago by OriginalPouzar
Psyche
October 2, 2022 10:02 am
I hope we see a line of Holloway-Nuge-Puljujarvi, in one of the games vs the Canucks. A nice blend of size, speed and skill. Possibly a quality 2-way line, which can forecheck well and hold O-zone possession.
I complete agree with you as well. I imagine McLeod will get an opportunity with either McDavid or Draisaitl in the coming games.
Redbird62
October 2, 2022 9:50 am
It was mentioned last night by Stauffer that the NHL roster players iced by both teams favoured the Jets 11-7. LT alludes to the gap in roster quality in his coverage above saying the Jets iced about 25% more. I believe both of these understate the gap between the relative “paper” quality of the two rosters iced last night by quite a bit. The devil as always is in the details.
MIssing from the Jets roster that are all certain to be in their starting line up were their top line of Connor, Elhers and Scheifele along with Morrisey and DeMelo on the back end. Gagner and Barron also did not dress too, but that is not significant.
Not dressed for the Oilers up front were McDavid, Kane, Yamamoto, Draisaitl, Hyman, Nuge, Foegele, McLeod (7 or 8 of the Oilers top 9 depending on where Foegele shakes out). On defense, no Nurse, Ceci, Kulak, Bouchard or Barrie and we still don’t know for sure who number 6 will be. If its Murray, that would be none of the top 6 or 5 of the top 6 not dressed at a minimum.
Combine this with the Oilers playing their back up against the Vezina trophy winning Hellebuyck, to get the win was pretty impressive. The first half of the game certainly appeared to look like a mostly NHL squad against a lot of players who won’t be starting the year in the NHL much like the Oilers versus the Flames on Friday, but the Oilers came on about halfway through the game after Skinner had kept them in the game for the first 30 minutes.
It’s still only exhibition and only one game, but the overall play of the game through 65 minutes last night and not just the result could be a reflection of how much more organizational depth the team has now compared to previous seasons.
I’m not sure I’ve enjoyed an exhibition game more than last night. What a big range of game situations, too. Fun.
Having a coach who knows his Bakersfield boys well almost feels like a secret weapon.
As a long time Skinner supporter, he shone and further justified my fan love for him.
Oil2Oilers
October 2, 2022 9:24 am
Holloway looks like an NHL player now, possibly even a impact NHL player now.
This plus the left wing depth makes Foegele expendable.
Foegele for a player like Seth Barton would be ideal. He is an ex Holland/Wright reach pick from Kelowna (which seems to matter to Holland). More importantly he is a RHD where the Oilers depth is weakest. The only problem is Holland has a history of getting fleaced by Steve Y.
At this point I think it comes down to the ask from the other side. If a team prefers Jesse Puljujarvi over Foegele, and the return is substantial, then I think Hyman moves over (possibly Foegele or Holloway too) to make it work.
My view is you add a prospect to Foegele in order to move him. Not ready to part with Jesse.
Tarkus
October 2, 2022 9:02 am
Prospecting!
A college trio shall play this day, highlighted by the Euro duo of Munzenberger and Maatta, Attorneys at Law. The former did not play yesterday–will he today? We wait.
Love it or hate it, I do not mind Stauffer being part of Oilers game broadcasts.
He voices his opinion when he thinks its required.
Refreshing, rather then appealing to corporate NHL.
Are we sure that Niemo has outplayed Broberg substantially?
I mean Broberg is near the top in CF% and FF% and 50% goals whereas Niemo is at the bottom for CF% and FF%, nearing 30% and 40% goals and his xGF% is also down near 30 (Broberg app 46%).
Both of them with a high percentage of offensive zone starts but Niemo higher (2nd on team).
TOI with stats – both have Demers as their most common and their most common forwards are both middling.
I know Niemo has thrown lots of hits and, really 3-4 games of on ice analytics is, well, what it is but I thought I’d throw the numbers out there.
The eye test for sure. There isn’t enough math to dispute it, that’s the problem with making decisions via preseason.
I wonder if the eye-test analysis is somewhat skewed due to exceptions of each player? I mean, Broberg has been on the ice for 1 GA at 5 n 5 (and his GA/60 is 1.5 less than Nimeo)…..
I acknowledge the Niemo had. game matched against Perfetti and PLD.
Here’s the thing, Broberg is Hollands guy and he will get every opportunity. There is a big risk to confidence if you send Broberg down and keep Neimo. There will be growing pains but I believe you have to keep Broberg and tell Neimo to be ready.
I think almost the opposite. I think if Niemelainen clearly outplays Broberg through the rest of camp you almost have to give the roster spot to him.
There’s no waiver risk for Broberg, and many a 21-year old has returned to the minors for more seasoning. Holland has done that time and again with players in similar positions.
Niemo brings almost no offense to the plate, so he has to be water-tight defensively or he is a net negative. He’s getting better but clearly needs the better part of another year in the AHL to wring those mistakes out of his game. Love the hits but it doesn’t make up the the GA.
Summarizing!
Only one point was had by an Oilers NA prospect this day, and it was an assist from the Deutschland Defender, Luca Munzenberger.
Though pointless, Maatta again demonstrated his prowess on the dot, going 18-for-28 (64.3%).
And Brind’Amour, whose pa was a pretty good FO man, was no slouch today either, going 14-for-24 (58.3%).
Prospecting takes a break until Humpday.
Tarkus, your info is so appreciated!
No updates until Humpday … what’s the maatta with you, Tarkus?!
I have not watched any of the preseason (I cannot watch preseason, I have a bad case of Magnus Gretzky Paajarvi Syndrome)*, has Broberg actually been as poor as the internets have been telling me?
*Magnus Gretzky Paajarvi Syndrome (MGPS)– the afflicted individual thinks that every player who has a good game in the preseason will be the second coming of the great ice hockey player, Wayne Gretzky.
Christ is this accurate, says the only guy (likely besides Magnus’ father) with that 91 jersey. Damn preseason hattricks….
Not to my eye, no. I think his gaps are too wide and he isn’t able to adjust, but he still skates well straightaway. Bob was mentioning on the broadcast that he was musclebound or lifting Lorry’s or something, but the speed is there.
What HAS happened is that Niemelainen looks like an NHL player.
Early days. No panic. Broberg’s third period last night was good.
The good thing is there is nothing wrong with more time for Broberg in the minors. People who want to hammer him, will. Those who saw his progress in Bakersfield, and then later in the season with Edmonton, will know a few pre-season games doesn’t define a player.
Yup, Klefbom also played in the AHL in his draft plus 4 year – he turned out pretty good (well, until).
To be honest, I’d be surprised if he didn’t play the first handful of games, at least. I mean 2 of Niemo, Sammy, Murray need to be sent down to ensure Broberg is on the opening roster submission and I think we know it won’t be Murray (or at least I think we think we know….).
Broberg will be up, Niemo will be down and, its an easy switch after 1, 2, 5, 10 games if Broberg is looking like a tune up is warranted……
Of course, Oil Country will LOSE it and over-react and catstrophize but I don’t think Holland will hesitate if he thinks its the proper way forward.
Thanks for this.
I think the beauty of Holland’s offseason is that it fine if Broberg is not ready for the show immediately. The Murray signing was a nice piece of business.
Also: “a few pre-season games doesn’t define a player”… true that!
Holland was smart and covered his ass.
Recall McLeod just one year ago.
He played his way off the team last pre-season. Then he made his way back a few weeks later and played well enough that you barely remember it even happened.
————-
Cool to hear that Niemalinen has so far taken the bull by the horns.
Really interesting from his post-game last week that hitting is NOT in his DNA, but that he added that element later.
That probably bodes well in terms of him working on his game and continuing to improve. Feels like that’s what we’re seeing so far this pre-season.
There’s some irony to the Holloway Broberg situations.
Holland said Holloway would have to play his way into the top 6, didn’t want him riding the pine playing 8 mins a night would rather have him in Bako…looks like Holloway has done just that…made the top 6 on merit.
Broberg however, Holland was quoted as saying he would have to play his way off the team, and I think one could argue the same philosophy, that he’s better off in Bako playing 27 mins a night in all situations vs playing 13-15 mins with no special teaks up here….
I think it makes more sense to have Murray or Nemo up here playing PK, 13 mins while Nurse and Kulak chew up 24 / 20 mins respectively on the left side.
Broberg proved all he needed to prove in Bakersfield last year. One has to begin the NHL learning process with the growing pains on the 3rd pair. That cannot be learned in Bakersfield. A defensemen on the 3rd pair is not being stunted like a top 6 forward prospect on the 4th line.
The D is learning how to be a D. The top 6 forward prospect getting limited minutes in the bottom six is not getting the opportunity to hone his skills.
Proved? Deserve has got nothing to do with it. I disagree and think Broberg will develop further playing Elite 1st pair minutes in the AHL, I think all prospects should be stuck in the AHL until they dominate that league….assuming you have the depth of course.
This was not how Bouchard was developed his first year in the NHL.
“Special teaks” sounds like the kind of thing that Woodguy would introduce if he was running a team.
I have many leatherbound books and my apartment smells of rich mahogany.
Oakay, I think I understand… If you don’t spruce up your game with good special teaks, you and your twig are forced to ride the pine in the bush leagues.
Nutty theory, I know.
Fir sure.
I predict our 6&7D will be Murray and Nemo. Samurokov just not cutting it, Broberg too vanilla. Up front, Holloway and Benson seem to have the edge, plus so much upside. Shore works hard but seems he is all he will ever be right now. Cut/reassign the rest.
”too vanilla”
always hated that saying. I LIKE VANILLA DAMMIT!!
Eternally underrated.
Lots of players can look good when the games are still at pre-season pace. The test is this week when the game pace begins to ramp up to regular season pace.
Munzenberger rejoins Maatta in Vermont’s lineup today.
Will Foegele and a second get you Austin Watson (50% retained). Watson who is a 30 year UFA and a certain rental later in the year. This type of move will generate $2M cap space and replace Fogele’s contribution.
We ready to talk about #80 in a much more appropriate tone than the dismissive one from the off-season and that acknowledges it was he that got the NHL time from among the fringe defencemen?
Better be. The big guy ain’t waiting for a chance – he’s taking it.
He looks very good. It’s preseason and last year’s numbers, in limited games, suggested he wasn’t quite ready. I hope he can deliver because that would solve many problems.
Niemo is 25 and has played 250+ pro games
Sammy is 23 and has played 152 pro games
Broberry is 21 and played 171 pro games
Niemo should be ready for the next step, but given the bonus numbers (unless a trade happens), it will be Phi Brobe’s spot, I figure.
If Sammy is placed on waivers, someone will snag him.
isn’t Niemo 24?
Yup, you are correct.
* runs away in shame
lol
and here I am minding my business and then, boom, Seattle’s mascot pops up..
Woof.
… its almost like they had an entire movie series to pull sea creatures from..
I wish I could have been a fly in the wall for the discussions about what their mascot could be
“Should we make a cool and cute kraken mascot that carries something like a trident and has tentacles on the mask?”
“How about a furry troll doll instead?”
“Even better! That screams “kraken!””
Oh, it gets better,
“What’s worse is the fact it’s based on the Fremont troll. So their mascot is based on something meant to stop homeless people from sleeping under a bridge.”
Seattle, similar to pacific states, has a horrific homelessness issue. It’s quite sad.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fremont_Troll
Yikes. I hope for the fans sake they never fall asleep at a game when Buoy is around.
lol.
It’s being reported, although not confirmed, Lagesson (CAR) has been placed on waivers.
Any interest?
Don’t see the point, he likely wouldn’t make the team on a recall basis.
It brings me no joy to report that Brogan Rafferty has been cut from the Kraken’s training camp 😔
LT is trolling HH on the twitterz
Link?
https://twitter.com/lowetide/status/1576632048483454976?s=46&t=vuhxpGy1Bq3rMCzCP-HJ3Q
Thanks, I tried to find it but have to log in to see more than the top tweet, and I’m not joining Twitter.
If you click the ‘login’ button and then close the popup, you can resume reading without having to log in.
I’m anxiously awaiting LT’s second book: “Shout It From the Raffertys: Brogan’s Gonna Miss Him When He’s Gone”
Or “The Day the Clock Stopped: How Brogen Rafferly Changed the World”
Wait…. is Tryogan Rufflefeathers available at league min, 1 year deal, no acquisition cost? Fuckin let’s go for it, dump Barrie, throw him on the Top PP to keep Bouchard from bloating his next contract….what are we waiting for!?
Some prospects flame out into obscurity, but not him. His memory will live on and he will be in our hearts forever. He may have lost 1 fairweathered fan, but he gained a legion of fans in the process.
All the best, Broman Raftcity.
I’m lighting a candle tonight for Broghemian Rhapsody.
“Is this real life? Is this just fantasy? Caught in a landslide – no escape from reality. Open your eyes, look up to the skies and seeee
Brogan’s just a poor player, he needs no sympathy.”
The Oilers are going to bring him to camp on a PTO in 2026 and we’re all going to be rooting for him so hard.
He’s on the Brian Rafalski career path.
All Star berths are just a couple of years away.
Rafaski at 26 was named by the Sporting News as the best player in the world not playing in the NHL after winning the Liga equivalent of the Ted Lindsay (the first not Finnish player to do so). Brogan Rafferty by 27, other than an AHL second team all star selection, has only managed to achieve the Harpers Hair Troll Hall of Ignominy designated to players ridiculously touted by HH himself to being better prospects than any recent Oiler draft selection could possibly be.
Maybe a few more AHL all star berths will come Raferty’s way, but I wouldn’t even count on that.
The following players were loaned to the AHL’s Bakersfield Condors:
Two more players were released from their PTOs and will report to Bakersfield:
And one player was placed on waivers for the purpose of assignment to the Condors:
By my count that leaves 16 forwards, 11 dmen and 3 goalies in camp including the 2 PTO’s.
A more accurate count and list. I got my count from the Oilers webpage that counted Desharnais who is injured and didn’t list Hamblin who doesn’t have a NHL contract.
17 forwards and 10 dmen.
Thirty players for 21 to 23 spots.
Daniel Nugent-Bowman
Healthy players still at Oilers camp:
Ryan, Shore, Benson, Janmark, Yamamoto, Kane, McDavid, Puljujarvi, Hyman, Unmentionable, Malone, Draisaitl, Foegele, Holloway, Hamblin, McLeod, RNH Barrie, Nurse, Demers, Ceci, Niemelainen, Broberg, Bouchard, Kulak, Murray, Samorukov 3 goalies
Hamblin is on an NHL contract, as of this season.
That’s what I thought but the Oilers website roster doesn’t show him on the list which is what made me think I was mistaken and threw my count off.
Finally everyone gets to see why Holloway is a top 20 prospect in the league
Button the anti-Oiler has Holloway at 32 and Bourgault doesn’t even rate
https://www.tsn.ca/owen-power-top-nhl-prospects-1.1784400
We are talking about a Boldy level prospect here (although I have a Boldy a little higher)
AKA this is an impact level prospect
Will Button’s credibility ever really recover from espousing the view for most of the time leading up to the 2015 draft that the choice between drafting McDavid or Eichel was a coin flip?
He basically called Bouchard a bust a year after his draft. He must be buddies with Holland because he did a 180 on Broberg and wouldn’t shut-up how Holland picked a no-doubter star in the making.
What I like about Button is he isn’t afraid of being wrong. What I don’t like about Button is he is wrong a lot.
Button is being paid to be controversial the only team he won’t troll is Calgary since he has a tattoo of a Flame on each ass cheek.
Which Flame?
His Brother & Cassie
Skinner – Holloway – Oh My!
These are the top 9 forwards on the roster:
McDavid
Draisaitl
Kane
Hyman
Nuge
KY
JP
McLeod
Holloway
And I am hard pressed to think of a better top 9 in the league. Find a way to make it work. I think Foegele is the move to make…
I get the feeling (hoping maybe) JP is starting to get his game going (maybe he is watching/learning what Holloway is bringing). Still a little frustrating to watch at times when he has chances…
The value in the Murray signing is now very clear. He will be a reasonable 6/7 until one of the youngins cements a spot at 3LD.
This team looks like a contender from this angle. I have had my frustrations with some decisions KH made, but for the vast majority of his moves he has made very good decisions. Righting the ship after Chiarelli almost sank it is a commendable accomplishment.
“now if they can just find a way to get Samorukov to the AHL…”
Well I have a plan they could.
But first, we could try to keep him on the NHL roster first and give him more games and a real trial. If it doesn’t work then he gets sent down and won’t get claimed. this can be accomplished by making an opening day paper transaction of sending Bouchard down to AHL for opening night. (he’s doesn’t actually fly to Bakersfield) You’ll have Broberg on opening night roster for his bonus structure purpose. Then send him down next day for some further seasoning (klefbom got 9 AHL games beginning of his last time down there then became full-time NHLer) Keep Samorukov as your 7th d and play him when needed and make a final decision on him without having to loose him prematurely for nothing. You then call up Bouchard next day so he can play 2nd Rd.
Your opening roster looks like
Nurse ceci
Kulak Barrie
Broberg Murray
Samorukov
Then second day of season going forward
You would have:
Nurse Ceci
Kulak Bouchard
Murray Barrie
Samorukov.
Broberg comes up asap if injury or poor performance by Samorukov occurs.
I think the Oilers have to be mindful of Bouchard’s bonuses in addition to Samorukov’s
You’re right. It’s not going to be enough. Damn!
There’s a Sammy on every team nobody is claiming him especially after watching Tippett sewer is value.
1) My cut (assigned, released our waived) prediction for today: Esposito, Philp, Hamblin, Bourgault, McKegg, Kemp. I would add that RW on a PTO as released but I think he gets one more game as they do need some bodies still with 3 games left (and he’s not going to Bakersfield like the rest listed).
2) Samorukov may get waived today as I can’t see him being on the opening roster (Niemo has been getting more “NHL assignments” than him, and that’s a tell. I don’t disagree with some of the verbal that it might be easier to sneak him through.
3) I have time for Demers on a deal and waived/assigned to the Condors for some in-season depth but, at the same time, I’m not sure that Kesselring isn’t deserving of the 4RD right now (with Deharnais hurt).
4) Shore played well last night but his $850K hurts him. With Holloway on the opening, there isn’t room for Shore as 12F (with one of Janmark/Ryan waived assigned) – 12F has to be the likes of Benson, Malone I think.
5) I choose Benson – Malone is more valuable as the captain of the Condors notwithstanding his ability to play centre.
6) The last 3 games should be the most telling but its trending towards Holloway being in the lineup on October 12 on merit. I think it would behoove Woody to play him “up the lineup” in a game or two against an “NHL lineup” and see how it goes.
I hope we see a line of Holloway-Nuge-Puljujarvi, in one of the games vs the Canucks. A nice blend of size, speed and skill. Possibly a quality 2-way line, which can forecheck well and hold O-zone possession.
Completely agree, Mcleod would also be fit there.
I complete agree with you as well. I imagine McLeod will get an opportunity with either McDavid or Draisaitl in the coming games.
It was mentioned last night by Stauffer that the NHL roster players iced by both teams favoured the Jets 11-7. LT alludes to the gap in roster quality in his coverage above saying the Jets iced about 25% more. I believe both of these understate the gap between the relative “paper” quality of the two rosters iced last night by quite a bit. The devil as always is in the details.
MIssing from the Jets roster that are all certain to be in their starting line up were their top line of Connor, Elhers and Scheifele along with Morrisey and DeMelo on the back end. Gagner and Barron also did not dress too, but that is not significant.
Not dressed for the Oilers up front were McDavid, Kane, Yamamoto, Draisaitl, Hyman, Nuge, Foegele, McLeod (7 or 8 of the Oilers top 9 depending on where Foegele shakes out). On defense, no Nurse, Ceci, Kulak, Bouchard or Barrie and we still don’t know for sure who number 6 will be. If its Murray, that would be none of the top 6 or 5 of the top 6 not dressed at a minimum.
Combine this with the Oilers playing their back up against the Vezina trophy winning Hellebuyck, to get the win was pretty impressive. The first half of the game certainly appeared to look like a mostly NHL squad against a lot of players who won’t be starting the year in the NHL much like the Oilers versus the Flames on Friday, but the Oilers came on about halfway through the game after Skinner had kept them in the game for the first 30 minutes.
It’s still only exhibition and only one game, but the overall play of the game through 65 minutes last night and not just the result could be a reflection of how much more organizational depth the team has now compared to previous seasons.
I’m not sure I’ve enjoyed an exhibition game more than last night. What a big range of game situations, too. Fun.
Having a coach who knows his Bakersfield boys well almost feels like a secret weapon.
As a long time Skinner supporter, he shone and further justified my fan love for him.
Holloway looks like an NHL player now, possibly even a impact NHL player now.
This plus the left wing depth makes Foegele expendable.
Foegele for a player like Seth Barton would be ideal. He is an ex Holland/Wright reach pick from Kelowna (which seems to matter to Holland). More importantly he is a RHD where the Oilers depth is weakest. The only problem is Holland has a history of getting fleaced by Steve Y.
At this point I think it comes down to the ask from the other side. If a team prefers Jesse Puljujarvi over Foegele, and the return is substantial, then I think Hyman moves over (possibly Foegele or Holloway too) to make it work.
Shame, Puljujarvi and Holloway look good together. With one of the Oilers raft of skilled centers they would be possession demons.
100%
I think you want to keep Hyman on left wing, keep Jesse, and move Foegele. What would be considered substantial?
My view is you add a prospect to Foegele in order to move him. Not ready to part with Jesse.
Prospecting!
A college trio shall play this day, highlighted by the Euro duo of Munzenberger and Maatta, Attorneys at Law. The former did not play yesterday–will he today? We wait.
Also appearing is Skyler, Son of Rod.
Quinnipiac (Brind’Amour) @ 11 a.m.
Vermont (Munzenberger, Maatta) @ 2 p.m.
As always, all times are Erskine time.
Hunter1909’s famous Death March has returned…with a new name in keeping with the new prospects for the team…
It will now be called:
Hunter1909’s Dynasty March
Same rules same everything and all of the previous records will be retained for posterity.
Here is how to play: Predict the total points that Oilers finish the season with.
Tie breakers:
1 – How many points Connor McDavid gets
2 – how many goals Leon Draisaitl scores
3 – Where Oilers finish(1-16th in the West)
Deadline: Puck drop @ Game 6 Pittsburgh
101 points
1- 127 point
2- 52 goals
3- 3d in West
1 – 131
2 – 56
3 – 3rd
Please predict the number of points Oilers finish with.
I fully support the name change!
1) 152
2) 64
3) 2nd
Please predict the number of points Oilers finish with.
Ha my bad
110
112 points, 138 mcpoints, 52 draigoals, 1st
1 – 135
2 – 62
3 – 1st
Please predict the number of points the Oilers finish up with.
122 points for the squad!
116 points
McDavid 137 points
Leon 57 goals
Oilers2nd in the West
Oilers – 109 points
1) 137
2) 53
3) 2nd
We’re not far apart on our guesses, Tarkus! Great minds think alike?
113 points
1 – 144
2 – 62
3 – 2nd
1- 141
2- 56
3- 1st in the West.
How many points do the Oilers get? That completes your prediction.
Oilers points: 107
mcdavid points 140
leon goals 51
oilers finish 2nd in west
Oilers – 124 points
1) 132 points for McDavid
2) 53 Draisaitl goals
3) 1st in the West
Oilers 109 pts
McDavid 129 pts
Draisaitl 51 goals
4th in West
Predict the total points that Oilers finish the season with: 106
1 – How many points Connor McDavid gets: 115
2 – how many goals Leon Draisaitl scores: 42
3 – Where Oilers finish(1-16th in the West): 4th
106
133
55
3rd
1 – 144
2 – 54
3 – 1
How many points to the Oilers get? Please let us know.
So much for the illusion that posts get read carefully. 😇
1- 119
2- 48
3 – 2nd or 3rd
Oilers will be a much better team overall, imo.
107 points
1. 49 goals for CM
2. 52 goals LD
3. 2nd in West
Oilers points 116
McDavid point 148
Drai goals – 53
2nd in the West