Sam Gagner and Andrew Cogliano were just two of the more pleasant surprises last season, but injuries, poor goaltending, and defensive breakdowns led to the Oilers downfall.
Photos courtesy of the NHL
Still, on offense, things are looking good at least down the middle of the ice. Seven of the eight centers who played for the Oilers last season scored 10 or more goals and two of them scored over 20. On the right wing Ales Hemsky led the team in points while Dustin Penner led the team in goals on the left wing. The team is stocked with promising prospects on offense but so heading into this week’s draft Edmonton will look to avoid a center, but might go with a left or right winger.
On defense Sheldon Souray became a sore to the Oilers after spending the money on him in free agency. A healthy Souray will boost the power play, but even then the Oilers could use some help on the blueline, especially if the team decides not to re-sign Joni Pitkanen.
In goal the Oilers might be tempted to take a goaltender, but Mathieu Garon might have put himself in a position to be the starter next season. Dwayne Roloson might have played his way out of town, but for now he will serve as the team’s backup.
With the Oilers 22nd pick overall, defense should be the team’s top priority. A couple of high school speedsters are on the board, and we all know how much the Oilers love speed. Jake Gardiner and Aaron Ness have the speed to compete at a high level, but Gardiner might have a slight edge to be picked, if only because he is considered the fastest skater in the draft. The only thing that matters however is how both players are
Photos courtesy of the NHL
With that said, we expect General Manger Kevin Lowe to announce the following.
“With the 22nd pick in the NHL Entry Draft, the Edmonton Oilers select, from
Contact the author at Brian.Jennings@prohockeynews.com
Photos courtesy of the NHL
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