What's The Problem?

I don't get what the big deal is. Why not send Magnus Paajarvi down right now?

He's clearly struggling and the Oklahoma City Barons could use a talent like Paajarvi right now.

I say send him down now and it will work out best for both parties. MPS needs to find his groove.

-Smokin' Ray Burnt-

Dan Ringwald Called Up To OKC Barons

Dan Ringwald Earns First Call-Up
Published on November 2nd, 2011
Written by: Stockton Thunder Staff
Second year blueliner earns first AHL recall of season after torrid start

STOCKTON, Calif. - The Stockton Thunder, proud ECHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers and San Jose Sharks of the National Hockey League, announced defenseman Dan Ringwald has been loaned by the Thunder to the Oklahoma City Barons of the American Hockey League.

Ringwald, 25, will make his AHL debut upon suiting up for the Barons during this regular season. He began the season scoring four points (1g-3a) and posting four penalty minutes in his first six games with the Thunder.


Dan Ringwald
The 6-foot-2 and 190 pound blueliner was signed by the Thunder as a free agent on Aug. 25, 2011. He skated last year under an AHL contract with Hartford/Connecticut and was loaned to the Thunder on Oct. 31, 2010. After making his ECHL debut with the Greenville Road Warriors, he finished the 2010-11 campaign leading all rookie Thunder defensemen with 23 points (1g-22a) in 61 games while totaling 27 penalty minutes.

Ringwald skated in four Kelly Cup Playoff games with the Thunder last season.

The Thunder also announced the following transactions:

> Jason Morgan (C) – placed on three-day injured reserve

> Jody Pederson (D) – placed on seven-day injured reserve

> Mike Little (D) – activated off injured reserve

> Sebastian Owuya (D) – activated off injured reserve

The Thunder returns to play on Friday, hosting the Utah Grizzlies at 7:30 p.m. at Stockton Arena for the start of Thunder Goes Pink VI presented by St. Joseph’s Medical Center in association with BloodSource, Union Bank and Food-4-Less. Radio coverage of the game will be available at 1280 KWSX. Online coverage is available for viewing (pay-per-view video charge) and listening (free of charge) at www.StocktonThunder.com, courtesy of AmericaOne.

The Thunder have frozen most Season Ticket prices for the 2011-12 season, which are on sale now and can be purchased by calling (209) 373-1500 or by visiting www.stocktonthunder.com. Thunder Season Ticket Holders enjoy the highest-demanded seating locations in Stockton Arena, benefits including admission to Season Ticket Holder-only events, discount opportunities on Thunder merchandise, a free e-newsletter, an exclusive gift, admission to the first two rounds of the Kelly Cup Playoffs and more.

For more information about tickets, merchandise, or other inquiries contact the Stockton Thunder offices at (209) 373-1500 or visit http://www.stocktonthunder.com/.

Alex Plante Recalled To The Oilers

Plante is on his way to join the Oilers in Edmonton after being recalled earlier today. Sounds like Andy Sutton will be suspended for a few games (5?) and that's why there has been a recall.

I'm a little surprised that he's the choice. Is this his last kick at the can? Is he doing more for the Barons than I know? I just don't get this call up.

Me personally, I would have recalled Colten Teubert.

-WRITTEN BY SMOKIN' RAY-

Ryan Keller Has Been Recalled?

Dan Tencer is reporting that Ryan Keller is listed on the Oilers game notes. So one would assume that he's been recalled.

I'll report more on this as we find out.

Interesting.

EDIT: Keller has been recalled for precautionary measures. Not for an emergency.

RIGHT BEFORE THE PUCK DROPPED, IT WAS ANNOUNCED THAT HE DIDN'T GET RECALLED AFTER ALL.

-WRITTEN BY SMOKIN' RAY-

Jeff Petry Is Assigned To The OKC Barons

Moments ago the Edmonton Oilers have assigned Jeff Petry to the Oklahoma City Barons. He's going to get good ice time down there and it's not going to help him develop playing with the Oilers as the 7th guy.

-WRITTEN BY SMOKIN' RAY-

The Oilers Loss, Is The Barons Gain

Everyone is always sad when cuts happen after the Oilers training camp, and rightfully so. Watching a good player get cut sucks, especially if you believe he should stay.

Today is no different. Some cuts were made today like Ryan O'Marra and Teemu Hartikainen. I like both of those players and I'd like to see them full time in an Oilers uniform. But as of now, that's not going to happen.

However...

My other favorite team just gained some kick ass talent. Both players played in OKC last year and both were welcomed to the city with open arms. My friends in OKC have had nothing but good things to say about them. I'm sure they will be welcomed all over again this season too.

On a hockey side, the Barons gained 5 quality hockey players today. O'Marra, Hartikainen, Josh Green, Gilbert Brule and Ryan Keller.

Keller has proved he can play in the AHL and his experience is going to help propel the Barons into the playoffs. He showed the Oilers he can be effective and no doubt he will in OKC too.

Josh Green, the former Oiler, is a classic case of veteran leadership. He's been in the show, and he's played enough in the AHL to know how it goes. He going to help the young kids adapt to being a pro and that's valuable. If I was coach Todd Nelson, I'd give serious consideration on making Green the captain of the Barons.

There's two ways this is going to work for Gilbert Brule. Option 1, this will light a fire under his ass and he's going to lead the team in points. Tambellini says he needs to find his game, and I can't argue with that. Option 2, this demotion crushes his feeling and he fades away to the point of not being able to produce or be worth of ice time. The Stockton Thunder can use a forward.

Let's not forget that this team already has a good group down there, adding these five guys is a good thing for the Barons. Like I said. The Oilers loss... is the Barons gain.

-WRITTEN BY SMOKIN' RAY-

Oilers Jambalaya and Ryan O'Marra Support Be The Game

The power of Sport, The Power of ME

At BE THE GAME, we believe in the power of sport and what sport provides and teaches our children and what that they will carry with them throughout their life's. Through our brand, we are proud to promote the power of sport to communities, teams, families and individuals abroad and in doing so we give back!

This is why we have launched the "Power of sport, the power of ME" campaign! In North America, the stat is that 1 in 3 Families cannot afford minor sports for their children! With our campaign, our goal is to assist as many of these families as we can but we need your help to do so!

Our goal is to sell 1 million BE THE GAME "power of sport" decals to raise $2 million dollars that will go directly to child development through the power of sport!

How can you help? Purchase your vehicle decals today and pay it forward! Ask your friends, family, colleagues, neighbours, and sports teams to do the same!

Simply click on the "Buy Now" PayPal icon and order your decals today and know that you are becoming a part of the solution in helping disadvantaged children play sport!

If you have a business and would like to support our page and campaign, please contact us today to found out how you can add your company to our growing list of organizations that believe in the power of sport and that all children deserve the opportunity to play.

Taylors story:

“Dear Joe Drexler and BE THE GAME Sportswear.

Taylor

My name is Taylor and I am 11 years old. I have mild cerebral palsy, am a diabetic and have vision issues. I want to thank the “BE THE GAME” organization for helping my Mom to register me with Sports for the Disabled in Lambton County that will allow me to play sledge hockey. Sledge hockey is like regular hockey except that instead of skates, we sit on a sledge (which is like a sled) and have hockey sticks with picks on the end of them to allow us to pull and push ourselves across the ice. It is so much fun and I love playing hockey. WITHOUT BTG’s assistance my Mom would find it very difficult to afford for me to play. BE THE GAME IS MAKING A DIFFERENCE FOR ME!!! And that is awesome…

Thank you,Taylor and her Mom Angela.”

EDMONTON OILERS FORWARD RYAN O'MARRA SUPPORTS BE THE GAME

Ryan O'Marra

"I am honoured to be a part of a company committed to assisting those in minor hockey the way Be The Game™ has. Joe Drexler has created a great product on a foundation created by solid principles and values. Giving back to minor hockey and other minor sports in any way I can is important to me as a person, just as it is important to Joe and everyone at Be The Game™."


~ Ryan O'Marra


HOW CAN YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE TOO?

You have several options on what you can do.  Either purchase a $5 Be The Game vehicle sticker like I did or you can purchase some of the cool clothing that BTG sells. Just go ahead and visit the website. They do an excellent job at BeTheGame.

EdmontonOilers.com Is Now iPhone And iPad Friendly

I tried watching the Joey Moss cup the other day on my iPhone and it wouldn't play the video. I was pretty sad about this. Until today...

EdmontonOilers.com is now iPhone and iPad friendly. You can watch the videos and they now have an app for your phone or iPad. Simple to use and very user friendly. I can't thank the Oilers enough for doing what they had to do to make this happen. Our lives just got easier.

**THERE IS NOT AN APP IN THE APPLE APP STORE YET** Go to EdmontonOilers.com to get the mobile iPhone version.

All we need now is an Oklahoma City Barons app. FYI, there is a Stockton Thunder app for the iPhone.

-WRITTEN BY SMOKIN' RAY-

Colten Teubert Concussed??? Curtis Hamilton Injured???

Colten Teubert isn't practicing with the Oilers this moring in Penticton, BC. He took a hard punch last night vs the Canucks (see video below) and it's possible he now has a concussion.  His nose was bleeding bad after the fight and it is possible he just has a broken nose and not a concussion. Either way, he's not skating today.

We will post updates right here as they are released.

EDIT: He suffered a broken nose. No talk of a concussion. He says he will not play in the last two Young Stars games. 

Here is the video of the incident.

CURTIS HAMILTON

Jason Gregor is reporting that Curtis Hamilton left the ice early during practice today. It appears he tweaked his leg in last night's game and was seen going off the ice and was bending or flexing his leg.

We will also keep you posted on this.

-WRITTEN BY SMOKIN' RAY-

OKC Barons Training Camp Opens September 26th (Public Welcome)

Josh Evans from the OKC Barons put out a press release today stating the Barons will open training camp September 26th. The camp will be open to the public. Very exciting news for Barons fans.

Here is the press release;

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BARONS TRAINING CAMP OPENS SEPTEMBER 26
(by Josh Evans, OKC Barons)


The Oklahoma City Barons will open training camp September 26 at the Cox Convention Center at 10 a.m., the team’s front office announced today.

The Barons training camp practice sessions will take place in the morning from 10 a.m. – noon and will be followed by a private workout session in the afternoon.  The on-ice portion of training camp is open to the public and is free to attend.


Key Early Season Dates for the Barons:
DATE                                       EVENT                                     TIME                LOCATION
September 26 - 30                   Barons Training Camp            10 a.m.           Cox Center
October 9                                OKC @ TEX                             4 p.m.        Season Opener
October 15                              TEX @ OKC                             7 p.m.           Home Opener


The Barons home opener is slated for October 15 at the Cox Convention Center against the Texas Stars at 7 p.m.  The Barons offer a range of ticketing options from full Season Seat packages, 21-game packages, 11-game and seven-game packs. 

All ticketing packages are available by calling 232-GOAL (4625) or by visiting the Barons website at okcbarons.com.

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Players on the BUBBLE? Pt2

As we look at the remaining BUBBLE players I have on my list, be rest assured this is my list and not the Edmonton Oilers list (or so we think). Again I will remind people that players listed as my BUBBLE players may catch on and play eventually full-time in the NHL, I just don't see them playing with the Edmonton Oilers. Aside from a major break out year I believe these players just won't be able to make that cut. Disagree? State your opinion and share your arguments. So without wasting anymore time let's cut to the chase and finish looking at my list of remaining BUBBLE players.......


Kristians Pelss 
5' 11"
175
9 Sep 1992

Stats:
2010-11 Edmonton Oil Kings WHL Games 63 G 14 A 19 PTS 33

this past year, he represented his country in the U20 world jr's and recorded:
Latvia U20  2011 Division 1 tournament: Games 5 G 2 A 2 PTS 4

HISTORY:
Derek Zona at the Copper and Blue wrote this following being drafted: Who?  From where?  Latvia?  Are you kidding me?  Who drafts from Latvia?  In a move that confounded both NHL  staff on site and Edmonton fans everywhere, the Edmonton Oilers reached into Latvia's Junior system to select  the speedy young forward.  Ben attended the draft and his rundown on Pelss included this gem:

When he was drafted he was so obscure that not only did the NHL not have a little insert for him on the draft board, but when they handed out the lists of draft picks about forty-five minutes later his birth city was shown as "Latvia" and his team was left entirely blank. The reasonable guess is the Oilers took Pelss based on what they saw of him at the Under-18 World Junior  Championship in Minsk, in April where Pelss had two goals and an assist in six games.  Pelss made the jump to North America this summer and will be playing for the Edmonton Oil Kings of the WHL.

To find out more about the mystery man from Latvia, I went to the aptly named Latvian Hockey News Report and the writer behind the site, Didzis Rudmanis.  Didzis was kind enough to speak with us and build a picture of Pelss and his game.  We also talked about the state of Latvian Hockey. Didzis Rudmanis (Latvian Hockey News Report):    Not a single player from Latvia - the 12th highest  ranked country by the IIHF - had been drafted into the NHL between 2007 and 2009.  In 2006 the Thrashers
 took Arturs Kulda and the Sens selected Kaspars Daugavins, but that's a long time between picks. Although Kristians Pelss is considered to be the best prospect of all 1992-born Latvian players, not many people expected him to be drafted.


Alessandro Seren Rosso at HF Boards writes:
The native of Preili, a small city in eastern Latvia with a large Russian presence, had to face most of
the troubles European players face in their first season in North America. Things like the new language:  "When I left Latvia I thought I knew English, but then I quickly realized I didn't. Now I'm trying to learn new words every day and now it's definitely better than before."
The winger also wanted to share his impressions about his new life in Canada, a country that he said he likes:  "I like my new life in Edmonton a lot, but sometimes it's boring. No one to talk with in my mother language." With that said, Pelss enjoys usual teenager activities in his free time: "Usually I go to the cinema with  my teammates, or we go shopping, but more often we play to the Xbox."  The Latvian forward is now settling into a solid role with the Oil Kings. His task for his first North American  season is to help the team to go as far as possible in the post season. The Edmonton-based franchise is now the sixth seed of the Eastern Conference, with 57 points earned so far. They shouldn't face many problems in getting a playoff spot.

As Pelss said earlier, since the start of season, a lot of progress can be seen in his game. However,
 he admitted that he still has "a lot to work on." Pells considers his skating and shooting abilities
 his best assets, and also considers himself more a goal-scorer, preferring to score goals over registering assists.


Upon the end of last season Dan Sallows writes:
All signs point to the Edmonton Oil Kings improving on the 69 points they put up in the 2010-11, and a big reason for that should be because of the crafty Latvian left winger Kristians Pelss. The 18-year-old enjoyed  a decent rookie season with the Kings, scoring 33 points on 14 goals and 19 assists in 63 games, and finished an impressive plus-11. Those totals sat the youngster 6th overall in scoring for Edmonton, and 12th overall among first year players in the WHL. Pelss also represented his native Latvia at this years IIHF Div 1  World Under-20 Championships, where he scored 2 goals and 4 points in 5 games en route to helping them capture gold, and led the tourney in penalty minutes with 31. The 5-foot-11, 180-pound forward has  tremendous hands, excellent vision and hockey sense, plays a solid transition game, is very opportunistic and has an abundance of raw skill and ability. Pelss was a seventh round pick (181st overall) of the  Edmonton Oilers in last years NHL Entry Draft, after he potted 6 goals and 9 points in 46 games for his Dinamo Juniors Riga squad, which is a team that was based out of the Belarusian Extraliga and serves as the farm team to the KHL’s Dinamo Riga club.


Hockey fight:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZLQ-2RqQCSgHighlight

Goal:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5tE__8Q-bqk


revingevs TAKE:
Has signed (some say it is only a try-out contract) to play with Dinomo Riga in the KHL for 2011-2012, the team he was Drafted  by in 2010, round 7 #175 overall in the KHL Draft.  I for one really liked his play at years end ,last season. In fact I even heard interviews by his coach, how he thought he made big strides and this year would be a interesting year with his development. He had legs that's for sure!  Now, about that signing! Why? Who is giving this advice?  Not a smooth move if you ask me. Not at this stage of his life right now. Maybe his agent looked at the current roster, looked at the players in the system and decided it was time to follow a different path. I can't see the Oilers being happy with this move. Of course I am just reading between the lines here and do not know for certain how they feel about this signing. To me, it takes a young prospect and makes him become suspect, when he decides to sign back in Europe (unless it was an arrangement already made by the club and the player).

Starting your career in Europe and then coming to North America is one thing. But coming to North America, then heading back to Europe is not usually a good sign of a developing player. Of course, if anyone has any good examples to say otherwise I would love to hear the players that fit that mold. This action alone for me has taken this prospect and made him suspect. I'd now consider him a BUBBLE player.





Ryan O'Marra 
6' 2"
220
9 Jun 1987

HF Boards says:
He is a skilled center with a good set of wheels. He handles the puck well and has a very good shot.
He can score from many areas of the ice and doesn't shy away from playing in traffic. Exceptional in the faceoff circle, he could be a player that is counted on to take defensive zone draws on a regular basis. O'Marra is at his best when he is playing with a physical edge to his game.  Banging bodies, creating turnovers and playing tough in the corners or in front of the net. He’s a natural center but has shown the ability and the comfort to play on the right wing as well as he did with Team Canada.He projects to be a  third-line center in the NHL who is able to shutdown the opposition, throw the body, take the key faceoffs and chip in offensively from time to time.

Stats:
2007-08 Springfield Falcons AHL         Games 31 G 2  A 7  PTS 9
2007-08 Stockton Thunder ECHL         Games 62 G 1  A 9  PTS 10
2009-10 Springfield Falcons AHL        Games 74 G 12 A 6  PTS 18
2010-11 Oklahoma City Barons AHL   Games 53 G 2  A 20 PTS 22
              NHL                                         Games 24 G 1  A 5  PTS 6

Hockey fight:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U2NtMh3i4Zw

First NHL Goal:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HbubPtJm2iw


revingevs TAKE:
I like Ryan. Have liked him since we traded for him in that Ryan Smyth deal way back in the day. I got to meet him that same summer he arrived at the Oilers Development Camp. He was still recovering from his injury and had to stay off the ice. He spent time talking with fans and was a popular one playing with kids. A very personable guy and one who does great interviews. Very intelligent guy and smart player on the ice. My question is, 'How many years can you be in development as a forward?' I only ask, because we all know it's been awhile. The Oilers must like what they see, they keep signing one year deals. He is close, but the closer he gets the more new players are starting to come into the system who can do what he can do. Unfortunately for Ryan, he is a BUBBLE Player who knows it ,as well. I can't see Ryan signing another year on a two-way contract after this , unless it is a breakthrough year for him. With the talent coming in at center now, chances are pretty low he gets more then a handful of games even again this year. "I'm rooting for ya Ryan!" (Sigh...) BUBBLE Player.



Milan Kytnar 
6' 0"
190
19 May 1989


HF Boards says...

Kytnar is a two-way, creative center who can score goals but is seen more as a safe, defensive player.
He is not very big (6'0), but he uses his body well. Good in front of the net, but he could stand to be
more aggressive. He had very impressive stats during his draft year especially in the plus/minus column  where he boasts an incredible +78. His whopping 91 points in 53 games suggests offensive ability to be further developed but must be taken with a grain of salt when quality of competition is taken into consideration.  In the WHL he was hardly a factor in an offensive sense.


Stats:
2010-11 Oklahoma City Barons AHL Games 78 G 13 A 16 PTS 29


Goal Video:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SMuHLNQFbAMhockey


Fight Video:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8P6pKZmqwQ


revingevs TAKE:

I am having a difficult time with Kytnar. He is someone who could definitely go either way. He has been a developing player to date but again, with the center talent increasing in the organization he will be in tough to get a shot with the Oilers. If and that is a big IF, Kytnar comes out flying from training camp and shows he is improving in his development , there is a chance he gets a call up if he sustains that. I think it is a BUBBLE year, show improvement and he may get one more year with the AHL team. Any lack of  improvement and the writing is probably on the wall.  





Philippe Cornet 
6' 0"
196
28 Mar 1990

HISTORY:Cornet was drafted by Edmonton in 2008 in the fifth round, 133rd overall. After attending Oilers training camp each of the last two seasons, he opened a new chapter of his career this year in Oklahoma City. For a player that saw quality ice time in junior, Cornet’s start for the Barons saw him watch from upstairs more than the bench.


Stats:2010-11 Oklahoma City Barons AHL Games 60 G 7 A 16 PTS 23


HF Boards says....A bit of a sucker for punishment, Cornet often finds himself digging for the puck in the corners and along the boards and battling against players much larger and stronger then he is. To his credit, he takes his knocks and always gets up and tries again when he gets out-muscled and knocked down. When he does get the puck, he has the ability to thread a pass that has no business getting through, thanks to his on-ice awareness and soft hands, but his lack of strength reduces his effectiveness. Needs to improve in all facets of the game but the Oilers feel he is a skill player that could be a diamond in the rough  just needing development and better luck with his health.


revingevs TAKE:

Cornet is a player who has needed time to adjust to the speed of the pro game. He's not a player who is found out of position, lost on the ice or even making bad mistakes. He is just struggling to be the player he was in jr. His development curve is starting to look familiar to the same as Ryan O'Marra. Good player but development has slowed and too many new young prospects coming into the system. Maybe he has to discover himself at the pro level.  Most likely he will be a player sometime down the road, but not sure it will be with the Edmonton Oilers. BUBBLE player who will need to play above his head this year in order to make any progress out of that BUBBLE!




Alexander Bumagin 
6' 0"
180
1 Mar 1987

HISTORY:
Alexander Bumagin (born March 1, 1987 in Togliatti, Russia) was drafted as the fifth choice (170th overall) of the Edmonton Oilers in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft.


HF Boards states:An effortless skater who can reach top speed by using just a few of his long, effective strides...
plays with above-average agility and possesses a solid balance...boasts an impressive pair of hands
which control the puck smoothly...utilizes on his strong instincts and the ability to find the open man...
very good in one-on-one situations...willing to play in traffic, but doesn't play a physical style...
releases a precise wrist shot...decent slap shot, which could be more accurate...his intensity off the
 puck drops off...doesn't show much commitment on defense.

Stats:
2007-08 Mytishchi Khimik Russia              Games 31 G 8 A 7  PTS 15
2008-09 Mytishchi Atlant KHL                   Games 40 G 4 A 7  PTS 11
2009-10 Nizhnekamsk Neftekhimik KHL   Games 51 G 8 A 13 PTS 21
2010-11 Nizhnekamsk Neftekhimik KHL  Games 4  G 1 A 2  PTS 3 
2010-11 Novokuznetsk Metallurg KHL      Games 39 G 6 A 5  PTS 11


revingevs TAKE:

You want more information on him? Good luck finding it! Unless you can translate Russian, you may be out of luck :)   Now how could he be on the BUBBLE? Quite easy! Don’t expect to see him in North America any time soon;  he’s signed with HK Atlant through 2010.Not to mention, finding any information on him is difficult or next to impossible. Maybe that is the sign he is a BUBBLE player. I have no idea how long he stays our prospect,  but maybe there is someone out there who has more information on him and his status with the Edmonton Oilers then I can find.  Having talked to a few people 'in the know', they don't seem 'to know' anything for sure. All educated guesses. I think with everything we are getting to this point, we could say this is one player who is more then a BUBBLE player, he is a NEVER player. Sounds mostly like we still have his negotiating rights? Too many players are far above him to even think he has a shot.

-WRITTEN BY REVINEV-

Players on the BUBBLE?

I have compiled a list of players within our system that we can consider PROSPECTS. Today I want to begin to cover some players I would say are..BUBBLE Players. A player who is sitting on that bubble and their future will very well be determined this 2011-2012 year in regards to the Edmonton Oilers organization. I don't claim to be a expert, only a fanatical fan who observes very closely the movement and development of players. Feel free to suggest other players you think may be on the BUBBLE this year. Disagree and state your arguments and opinions.........love to hear them.

So without further delay let's begin to look closer at Edmonton Oiler Prospects. Are they PROSPECTS? or are they SUSPECTS?


Alex Plante 
6' 4"
230lbs
9 May 1989

SOME HISTORY: selected by the Edmonton Oilers 15th overall in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft and made his National Hockey League (NHL) debut in 2009–10. He is the son of former professional defenceman Cam Plante, while his brother, Tyler, is a goaltender in the Florida Panthers organization.

Plante played junior hockey for the Calgary Hitmen of the (WHL). They selected him with their second round pick, 21st overall, in the 2004 WHL Bantam Draft. He attracted greater attention from NHL scouts in the 2007 playoffs, scoring 11 points in 13 games. As a result, the Edmonton Oilers selected him 15th overall  in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, a higher position than he was initially expected to go. Several injuries limited Plante to 36 games in 2007–08 and he failed to report to Calgary's training camp prior to the 2008–09 WHL season, claiming that the team had treated him poorly the previous year. While he initially demanded a trade out of Calgary, Plante ultimately recanted and returned to the Hitmen early in the season.He rebounded from his "nightmare season" in 2007–08 to rank among the leaders of the Hitmen defence with 45 points in the regular season and another 15 in the playoffs before Calgary was upset in the league championship series by the Kelowna Rockets.

STATS for his 2 pro years in the Oilers farm system:
2009-2010  Springfield       GP 49 G 2 A 7   PTS 9
2010-2011 Oklahoma City GP 73 G 2 A 15 PTS 17

Article written by Ryan Dittrick at edmontonoilers.com:
In Plante’s two seasons as a professional, the bulk of his ice-time has been spent on the farm, keenly
developing his craft as an intimidating force on the blueline. His upward development curve has been
noticed in Edmonton, as the 6’4" 225 pound rearguard has earned two separate call-ups to make his mark with an early impression. "They want me to play simple," Plante explained. "When I was up there earlier in the year, I was probably trying to do a little bit too much. I wanted to be there, I wanted to show them I wanted to be there. I got away from my game and from the things that make me successful. That was another learning experience. It was only my second call-up, so I'm trying to learn from everything." "When I'm at my best, my game shouldn't change in the minors or whether I'm playing up top in the NHL.  I think at the end of the day, I was able to show them that I've been improving. I need to make sure that  continues. I’m hungry for that spot." Rounding out his game has been an ongoing process; a natural development curve that many up-and-coming prospects face early on. Edmonton’s philosophical change as an organization has meant that players with size and toughness will be highlighted. Securing a future spot in the Oilers lineup may come sooner, rather than later.That decision, naturally, is now on Plante’s shoulders.

Edmonton Oilers Fight Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rDAjmSTgwJgOKC
Barons Fight video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1321gWKRW7U


revingevs TAKE:
Some people may very well question my belief that he is a BUBBLE player. In fact many may say he is a DEVELOPING player. I don't think the question is, "will he play in the NHL?" I think he will. Just not with the Edmonton Oilers. There has been a lot of new players coming in and challenging for his spot and Plante is not head and shoulders above them, in fact , those newer players are ranking above him in terms of call up. There is only so many spots available with the big club and unfortunately for Plante his time may be counting down.  He is the very kind of prospect who could end up being a part of a package moving out with a Current roster player in some transaction this year, or if not, for sure next.

Plante is close but still lacks the foot speed that it takes to compete at a higher level. the Oilers want big tough d-men, but they want them mobile. Alex does have a chance at the Oilers roster, but it's slim and there is,  tough competition! It's time for him to start dominating at the AHL level if he wants to break that BUBBLE!

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Johan Motin 
6' 2"
220lbs
10 Oct 1989

Talent Analysis pre-draft report by HF Boards:
Motin is a stay-at-home defenseman with very good size and strength. He has the potential to become a bruising defenseman if he develops his physical game. At this point, his is inconsistent when it comes to playing the body and should act with more resolution and confidence along the boards and in front of his goalie. Offensively, there is little to say about Motin. He does not have the fundamental skills to contribute in a big way in terms of points and hockey sense is limited to playing it safe in his own end. Motin’s puck skills are rather average and on the downside, mobility and speed could use some improvement.

As for his future? He should be considered a project and although playing against early against men, will likely need quite a few seasons of development before being possibly ready for the NHL.

History update:On June 21, 2008, Motin was drafted by the Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League (NHL),
selecting him in the fourth round of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, 103rd overall. On May 19, 2009, the Oilers announced that they had signed Motin to a three-year entry-level contract.  He was assigned to the Oilers' then-AHL affiliates, the Springfield Falcons, for the 2009-10 AHL season. Motin was called up to the Oilers senior roster on an emergency basis on March 3, 2010, and he played in
 his first-ever NHL game. Motin was assigned to the Oilers' new AHL affiliate, the Oklahoma City Barons for their inaugural season.


Pro Stats: Springfield Falcons AHL       GP 55 G 1 A 5  PTS 6
                Stockton Thunder ECHL        GP 14 G 1 A 1  PTS 2
                 Oklahoma City Barons AHL  GP 34 G 1 A 3  PTS 4

Stockton Thunder hockey fight:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PsvRt3qp1gQOKC

OKC Barons Goal:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmxxl7VoURU

revingevs TAKE:
Johan is a interesting character. His early rookie training camp looked pretty good to the eye. I personally was at that camp. His skating was smooth, he looked poised with the puck, patient and had some nice passes on the stick of his teammates. But something happened upon arriving in the AHL.

Not sure if it was the rough and rugged play, that can be tough in the AHL, but his development slowed and since, several other players have passed him on the depth charts. He is that BUBBLE player that could swing many directions. Possibly he becomes trade bait with a Oiler roster player, maybe he becomes a transitional player with our AHL club, maybe he just becomes a free agent and attempts to break through in another organization's club.

In order for Johan to make the Edmonton Oilers current roster now, it would take a Giant step forward in his development. Even then, that big development step may not get him on the Oilers roster, it could go a long way into getting noticed with another organization. Either way, this needs to be a step up year, or you very well could see him head back to Europe.


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Taylor Chorney 
6' 0"
193lbs
27 Apr 1987

HISTORY:
Drafted by the Edmonton Oilers with the 36th overall pick in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft.  He previously played at the University of North Dakota.  Was on Team USA at the 2006 World
Junior Championships. Chorney represented the USA again in the 2007 World Juniors, where he was
 team captain. He made his NHL debut on April 10, 2009 against the Calgary Flames. He recorded his
first NHL point in his first game of the 2009-10 season, by assisting one of Zack Stortini's two goals
 on October 12, 2009 on the road against the Nashville Predators. Taylor Chorney scored his first
National Hockey League goal against the Dallas Stars on February 15th, 2011 at Rexall Place.

His father, Marc, played 210 games in the NHL for the Pittsburgh Penguins and Los Angeles Kings

PRO Stats:2008-09 Springfield Falcons AHL GP 68 G 5 A 16 PTS 21 
2009-10 Springfield Falcons AHL GP 32 G 4 A 9  PTS 13
2010-11 OKC Barons            AHL GP 46 G 3 A 13 PTS 16
(needs to clear waivers)         NHL GP 56 G 1 A 6  PTS 7

Scott Reynolds over at The Copper and Blue wrote:Taylor Chorney is heading into his fourth professional season, which means he's entering that dangerous part of his career where he's no longer really considered a prospect. He'll need to clear waivers to make it to the AHL, but with six guys on one-way contracts plus Jeff Petry hanging around as the second-best right-handed defender on the team, the only way I see him making the Oilers out of camp is if the club decides to carry eight defenders.  Even if they do, he'll have a helluva time getting into the lineup unless he wants to play his off-side, which given his NHL results so far, could be absolutely disastrous. It seems more likely to me that (barring injury) Chorney gets sent to Oklahoma to start the year and  takes on the toughs at evens with a variety of partners. If he plays well, he might be able to earn a call-up for the fourth straight year, but again, he's getting older, so the Oilers might prefer to take a look at some of the younger prospects.

first NHL Goal:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=myDAp9clpf0


revingevs TAKE:
As Scott Reynolds has said at Copper and Blue, Taylor really is not considered a prospect as he has to clear waivers to even be sent now to our AHL affiliate. However if your not on the Oilers current roster, your really a prospect, but not a developing one?

It's a interesting question. I have had the chance to see his development over the last couple years at Development Camps, rookie camps and Main training camps. Chorney is a interesting mix. For me he shows 'flashes' of what he can do and then disappears. Last year's Oilers skills competition he shocked many recording the fastest time on the current roster. I thought his development this past year went a long ways to him securing a spot on the big club. (Most likely why he got that contract he did).

With Petry right there beside him, he needs to really step it up, right out of training camp this year. His benefit? He will need to clear waivers in order to be sent down to OKC. Should he clear, he would be your first call-up in the case of a injury but in the mean-time  'would he clear waivers?'. I think there are teams out there willing to take a chance on him, so best bet is? The Oilers start the season with him in their line-up. He needs to come out the gate flying tho, cause he is a BUBBLE player right now who won't have much of a long lease should he falter early.


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Toni Rajala 
5' 10"
163lbs
29 Mar 1991

STATS:2009-10 Brandon Wheat Kings WHL Games 60 G 26 A 37 PTS 63
2010-11 Ilves Tampere SM-liiga  Games 44 G 9  A 13 PTS 22

History:Rajala began playing junior hockey with the Ilves Tampere system in 2005–06. By 2007–08, he had worked his way up to the Junior A level of the SM-Liiga, tallying 35 points in 33 games. Rajala turned pro with Ilves Tampere in 2008–09, tallying 5 points in 21 games during his professional rookie season in the SM-Liiga. On 16 July 2009 Rajala signed an two way contract NHL/AHL with Edmonton Oilers.

Rajala was selected in the first round of the 2009 CHL Import Draft (14th overall) by the Brandon Wheat Kings of the Western Hockey League (WHL). He joined the Wheat Kings for the 2009-10 WHL season.

Rajala debuted internationally for Finland at the 2008 IIHF World U18 Championships, recording
5 points in 6 games as Finland placed sixth. The next year, he was named to Finland's under-20
team for the 2009 World Junior Championships in Ottawa, Canada, and managed 3 points in 6 games;
Finland finished in seventh place. Later that year, in April 2009, Rajala competed for Finland at
the 2009 IIHF World U18 Championships in the United States. He led the tournament in scoring with 10 goals and 9 assists and broke the previous point record held by Alexander Ovechkin.

Rajala was selected as the best forward in the tournament, and was named to the tournament All-Star Team, helping Finland to a bronze medal.

HF Boards Talent Analysis:
Rajala has incredible offensive talent. His best asset might be his elusiveness.  He is however, very slight of build.  Rajala is a pure skill player who – mentally and physically – always seems to be a step ahead of the opposition. His size and strength are concerns – and the key issue will be whether he can compete on a nightly basis against some of the bigger and faster players in the NHL. He is almost unstoppable at the junior level – both in domestic play and in international competition – and has a strong inner drive to create offense. He is a marvel handling the puck, shoots accurately with a quick release, and is adept at passing and receiving the puck. Provides constant pressure on the power play due to his skill level, intensity and ability to recognize open teammates and scoring opportunities.

Highlights Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8Xu4f4on10

revingevs TAKE:
Surprised? I know, he is young, talented with lots of skill  and back in Europe serving his army time and still playing hockey. 'How could I have him as a BUBBLE player?' Well unfortunately for Tony he has a couple things going against him to make our current roster.

 1) He is a smaller sized talented player. We have been trying to move away from having so many of those type of players. which brings us to 2) We have some smaller talented players in our top 9.

Eberle and Omark and Gagner. (meaning under 6ft tall),  With all the talent stockpiling on the club Tony will have a hard time cracking this line-up and as far as I can gather, he will still not be with our AHL team this coming season. This means that he will need a season where he stands out as a elite talent in europe to even get noticed and not become another buried treasure.

Like I said in my opening article, 'the cupboards and fridge are quite stocked'. I think he could easily catch on somewhere else with the talent he has,  but at this point, he on the BUBBLE and this is his year to display what he can really do.

More BUBBLE players to be con't....

OKC Barons Promo Video

Video courtesy of okcbarons.com

State of the Barons: July 4th

After the 1st weekend of free agency, the Barons have suffered some big losses. In addition to Brad Moran leaving for Sweden, we learned that Colin McDonald signed with Pittsburgh and Alexandre Giroux signed with Columbus, leaving the Barons without their top line and top three scorers from last season.

That's a huge chunk of the offense from last season, but how much exactly?

Obviously, that's a big hole to fill and unfortunately, the Oilers have yet to sign anybody that can really fill that hole. Jeff Taffe and Brett Sterling, who I would have put in that category, were both signed by Minnesota and St. Louis respectively. Josh Green showed he can score last season, but not those numbers. There's a slight possibility that Linus Omark starts out here next season, but without Liam Reddox, it'll be interesting to see if he can keep his pace where it was. Anton Lander is another possibility, but it still only fills some and not all of the gap.

One free agent that can help that is still on the board, Darren Haydar. Haydar scored 27 goals and 47 assists in 77 games for the Chicago Wolves last season. He's never had a season where he scored less than 50 points in the AHL, and he's another strong veteran that the Oilers have seemed to be looking for to fill out the roster for the Barons.

Oh, and we're still looking for a goalie.

-Written by Eric Rodgers-

Liam Reddox Heads To Sweden; Martin Gerber Rumors

Announced earlier today, Liam Reddox has signed a 1-year contract with the Vaxjo Lakers of the SEL. From the Lakers website:(Google Translated)

Liam Reddox comes from the Edmonton Oilers organization in which he played since
2007 and during four seasons there has been a total of 100 NHL games.
This past season, played 25-year-old 44 NHL games, recording a goal and nine assists.
In 37 AHL games with the Oklahoma City Barons was a total of 33 points
distributed on 18 goals and 15 assists.
- Liam is a Canadian who can play both center and outer forward and who thrive as both, "said sporting director Henry Evertsson on the new acquisition.
- He is good on skates and I work really hard, but also has offensive talent and technology. He is a two-way player who will run at maximum speed all the time. We fell for his drive in the game. He will do a lot of points, but he is primarily an engine of the team, a player who can draw with the team every night.
Was it important to get a driving player?
- We'll play three games a week throughout the season as the
smoothness will be important, and which will contribute to Liam. The difference
between hockey league Elitserien and is quite large, and we need players who can
deliver in every match. Liam Reddox, who signed for one year, will make his
first spell outside North America.
- That he has played in the NHL is a good routine, but he is no savior for it which is important to note. He has not been able to play for an NHL spot in full, so he sees this as a good start because the Elite Series is a great series.
The Oklahoma City Barons played Reddox the season with the Lakers second transatlantic acquisitions: Brad Moran. It has obviously facilitated the recruitment of Reddox.
- We have a good history with Transatlantic. Liam has played with Brad so they know each other, and we know what is important for Transatlantic and how to make lay-ups in order to fit them. I think we are an attractive option for those who still strive forward in their career, "says Henry Evertsson.
Henry Evertsson also announces that one goalie, one of two defenders and a forward to be in the squad.

As the article mentioned, Vaxjo is the team that Brad Moran signed with right after the Barons season ended. Vaxjo has been making a big push with signings this offseason after winning their way into the SEL last season. In addition to Moran and Reddox, the Lakers also signed former Texas Stars defenseman Dan Spang earlier this month and it's been rumored that Peoria Rivermen's T.J. Hensick will be joining the team as well.

----

I've been wanting to mention this for awhile, but didn't really want to make a post just for rumors, so I'll just leave them here. Earlier this month, a Swiss website, sport.sf.tv, asked Martin Gerber about playing in Switzerland this season. To which he responded "At the moment everything is possible". Skelleftea AIK of the SEL and the Malmo Redhawks of HockeyAllsvenskan(the tier below the SEL) have both stated they have a big interest in acquiring Gerber for next season.

-Written by Eric Rodgers-

A Time Traveller Visits? Visions About The Edmonton Oilers?

This is a harrowing tale from the future about the ill-fated 2006 Edmonton Oilers.

Starring Craig Buchert, Elizabeth Ludwig, Matt Stanton, Trent Wilkie and Mark Meer.

http://www.mostlywatertheatre.com/

Player Movement Begins, Brad Moran Reportedly Headed To Sweden

Originally reported by Smålandsposten and then reported by other Swedish outlets, it looks like Brad Moran will be heading back to Sweden to play for Vaxjo Lakers HC. The Lakers will be making their debut in the Elitserien this season after earning their promotion from HockeyAllsvenskan last season.

Moran had played for Skellefteå AIK previous to signing with the Oilers and playing for the Barons this last season. Moran had 71 points in 79 games with the Barons and 82 points in 110 games with Skellefteå AIK over two seasons. Other centers Ryan O'Marra and Chris VandeVelde both got Oilers callups ahead of Moran during the season. It's definitely going to be a difficult spot to fill for the Barons, as Moran had been the team's best center throughout most of the year.

EDIT: Vaxjo Lakers HC put out a press release stating that Brad Moran has indeed signed a two-year contract with them.

-Written by Eric Rodgers-

Oklahoma City Barons Game 6 Recap; Bulldogs Close Out The Series

And so it unfortunately ends. The Barons played well through the first 55 minutes, but couldn't keep it up. The Barons had a lot more quality chances at scoring but Drew MacIntyre did well to keep the puck out of the net. Two scoreless periods saw the Barons outshoot the Bulldogs 18-9 and Alexandre Giroux would finally break through at 5:41 of the 3rd to start the scoring. Nigel Dawes wouldn't have any of it though, scoring 62 seconds later to tie the game back up at 1. The Barons would have some good chances to take the lead back and would have a better chance as Aaron Palushaj would take a tripping call at 14:18. The beginning of the end though would come at 15:28 when Jeff Petry would take a tripping call of his own to help break up what might have been a breakaway by Hamilton. Palushaj would come out of the box and would later assist on Frederic St. Denis' goal to give the Bulldogs the 2-1 lead. The Barons would pull Martin Gerber for the extra attacker as time wound down, but Nigel Dawes and J.T. Wyman would each put in an empty netter to make the score 4-1 as the final horn sounded.

But wow, what a season. It's been a fun ride. Some end of season thank yous. First, many thanks to Smokin' Ray for giving me the opportunity and platform to do this. After meeting him and Scott from OilFieldHockey after the name "Barons" was unveiled, I had no clue I'd be where I'm at right now doing this. Second, thanks to Josh Evans and the Barons staff. They've been very inviting and I've gotten to meet some good people within the org. Third, many thanks to the players. For what they've done in the community this season and getting to know them during the STH events, they're all class acts. It's going to suck seeing those that pursue other opportunities leave. Many thanks as well to Ryan Aber of the Oklahoman. He was the only constant source of media coverage for the team this season and it was much appreciated.

Finally, many thanks to all of you. A year ago, I never thought I'd be where I am right now. Having 469 followers at the time of writing this on my Twitter account is far beyond where I thought I'd be at the end of the season. A lot of that is due to retweets and mentions from Dan Tencer, David Staples, and the great people at Copper and Blue. Lots of thanks to them as well. I appreciate all the support from all of you and I look forward to doing this again next season. Be sure to keep up with my Twitter, @AHLBarons, during the offseason for all the goings ons over the next few months. Next season's looking to be a good one.

-Written by Eric Rodgers-

Oklahoma City Barons Game 6 Preview vs. Hamilton Bulldogs

Win or it's over. The Barons head into today facing their first playoff elimination game in franchise history. The last time they had this kind of pressure though, they went into San Antonio and beat them 7-2 and into Austin the next night and beat the Stars 2-0. Different teams, different situation, but the pressure to win was still there and they didn't fold.

Following the Barons first loss, Todd Nelson changed the lines around to find some chemistry. After a shutout loss in Game 5, it'll be interesting to see if they get shuffled for tonight's game. Probably the biggest question is if Anthony Aiello will get the start again, with both Colten Teubert and Kevin Montgomery still out with upper body injuries. Brandon Davidson has been practicing with the main group as the 7th defenseman.

The top two keys to today's game, first is shutting down Nigel Dawes. The Bulldogs are 3-0 in the games that he has scored this series. The second is the top line of Alexandre Giroux, Brad Moran, and Colin McDonald. To have the top 3 scorers on the team during the regular season have only 1 goal and 1 assist each this whole series is not good. If they're able to get back where they were and the other 3 lines back to where they were in Game 3, winning these next two games won't be hard.

The Barons look to become the 7th AHL team to win both games 6 and 7 on the road. Binghamton became the 6th team last night, closing out the Manchester Monarchs in overtime. Elsewhere, the Lake Erie Monsters look to close out the Manitoba Moose for the 2nd time. The Moose avoided elimination in their last game winning 2-0. The Monsters hold on to a 3-2 series lead there. Their game is at the same time as the Barons.

Puck drops at 3:00 Central/2:00 Mountain today. You can listen on 96.1 KXY in OKC, or on The Team 1260 in Edmonton. You can watch the game on AHL Live as well($$). And you can follow me on Twitter, @AHLBarons, as well. Hopefully I'll be writing up one of these tomorrow, but time will tell.

-Written by Eric Rodgers-

Oklahoma City Barons Game 5 Recap; Barons Get Blanked

For the 5th time this season, their 3rd time on home ice, and the 2nd time against Hamilton, the Barons were shutout. After averaging 35 shots for and 27 shots against in Games 1-4, the Barons were only able to put up 20 shots, with 6 of those coming in the last 3 minutes. The Power Play woes continued, with the Barons going 0/7 on the night, 1/26 on the series.

The 1st period started off on a low note. After an Alex Plante slashing call, the returning Aaron Palushaj would pick up a loose puck in the crease during the PP and put the puck past Martin Gerber. Not helping was 2 Barons players getting caught together and Palushaj was able to break free. The Barons would only be able to put 3 shots on goal in the period and that would be the score as the teams headed to the locker room.

The 2nd period wouldn't be much better for the Barons. They couldn't connect on 2 PP chances and would have to kill what was essentially a 4 minute penalty after a questionable Goalie Interference call to Chris VandeVelde and an obvious slash in front of the referee to Alex Plante right after VandeVelde's penalty was over. The Barons were able to hold off the Bulldogs, but at 18:33 Nigel Dawes would get the puck and score to make it a 2-0 Bulldogs lead. Gabriel Dumont would take a kneeing penalty before the horn would sound to end the 2nd.

The Barons wouldn't be able to score on the Dumont PP, or the Dany Masse high stick call drawn by Zack Stortini early in the period. The Barons would only be able to get 2 shots on net for the majority of the period, and Gerber would be pulled with 2:10 left for the extra attacker. After Alex Plante almost tucked it into the empty net as he picked the puck up, they Barons would rush and Alex Henry would give the Barons a chance with a crosschecking penalty at 18:19. The Barons would manage 6 more shots in the period, but Drew MacIntyre would stand tall and earn the shutout as the final horn sounded.

The Barons now face a tall order of winning 2 in a row in Copps Coliseum as the teams head back to Hamilton. If they want any chance at it, they're going to have to start scoring on the PP and most of all, just shooting the puck period. There was reluctance to shoot in Game 5, and the Bulldogs were quick to exploit that. Obviously a 46 shot game will net you some goals, and if the defense helps the goalie, it'll make it into a win. Game 6 is Sunday with the puck drop at 3 Central/2 Mountain. If you're in the OKC area, there will be a watch party for the game at Rococo North Park location at May and 122nd.

-Written by Eric Rodgers-