Just got back home early this AM from a week away in BC and while feeling relaxed, got pretty excited thinking about the Penticton Young Guns Tourney coming up in September. We were only hours away, over in Vernon BC and all I could start to think and focus on, is 'how many days till we see some of these players on the ice again?' Yeah, exiting stuff, well at least for me.
In this posting I am focusing on players who I am seeing as TRANSITIONAL players in the system. These are the players who fill a role, but in all likelyhood will never be a regular roster player with the Edmonton Oilers. Now if your player , who you are following or hoping for is on this list, it doesn't mean all hope is lost. Every player has a chance of seeing their dream come true, just for some, it could be a much more difficult trip to seeing that happen. Their are afew players who I have listed who could very well become one of those players who falls into DEVELOPMENT player catagory, but it will take a tremendous effort and consistency in their game to even make a dent for it to happen.
Robby Dee
6' 2"
185
9 Apr 1987
Scored the only Maine Goal:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K3DZe8LYPQc
STATS:
2007-08 U. of Maine H-East Games 24 G 1 A 2 PTS 3
2008-09 U. of Maine H-East Games 33 G 6 A 5 PTS 11
2009-10 U. of Maine H-East Games 33 G 13 A 12 PTS 25
2010-11 U. of Maine H-East Games 36 G 13 A 22 PTS 35
revingevs TAKE:I find it difficult to believe that I could actually put Dee in this catagory. In fact I was going to put
him as a BUBBLE player, but could not, due to the fact he will probably still be in the system next year. In all likelyhood, Robby will be looked at and brought into the system by years end. His game has improved at the university level, but is barely spoke of in Oiler circles. Sometimes with College kids you hear little about them until near the end of their degree's. But with Robby we still have heard very little. Maybe someone else has more information I have not heard but most arrows are pointing he will soon join our AHL club and decisions will be made upon seeing how he fares at the minor PRO level.
I am putting him in the TRANSITIONAL player catagory mostly because he is not really a BUBBLE player and since he is spoke little of, it is possible he will be the TRANSITIONAL player the team uses, maybe even a player who pushes some of the other younger guys on the AHL team, for a roster spot.
Josh Green
6' 3"
218
16 Nov 1977
Hockey Fight:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VY_Zer8E_Pk
Last 4 playing years outside NHL:
2007-08 Salzburg EC Aust Games 58 G 27 A 30 PTS 57
2008-09 Iowa Chops AHL Games 39 G 10 A 14 PTS 24
2009-10 Modo Hockey Ornskoldsvik SEL Games 47 G 12 A 8 PTS 20
2010-11 Syracuse Crunch AHL Games 69 G 15 A 31 PTS 46
Last 4 playing years of NHL work:
2005-06 Vancouver Canucks NHL Games 33 G 4 A 2 PTS 6
2006-07 Vancouver Canucks NHL Games 57 G 2 A 5 PTS 7
2008-09 Anaheim Ducks NHL -- Games 5 G 0 A 0 PTS 0
2010-11 Anaheim Ducks NHL Games 12 G 0 A 0 PTS 0
revingevs TAKE:
Josh Green is a depth signing for the OKC Barons. He's going to push the younger players in the system for their jobs. Hes a hard working player who has good experience, the right attitude, wants to win and doesnt give up in the pursuit of the puck on the forecheck. His role as a TRANSITIONAL player is going to be that mentor role but he may also be a casualty and be scratched from the line up on occasion. One thing we should not do ,is mistake his role to be a 4th line player with the oilers. Josh Green has pro experience but has not fared well in the few times he has had his cup of tea.
Ryan Keller 5' 10"
196
6 Jan 1984
Highlight Goal:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VMeRcq5OSOI
Last 4 Years playing outside of NHL work:
2007-08 Blues SM-liiga Games 47 G 22 A 22 PTS 44
2008-09 Blues SM-liiga Games 54 G 21 A 34 PTS 55
2009-10 Binghamton Senators AHL Games 72 G 34 A 34 PTS 68
2010-11 Binghamton Senators AHL Games 71 G 32 A 19 PTS 51
NHL games played:
2009-10 Ottawa Senators NHL Games 6 G 0 A 0 PTS 0
revingevs TAKE:Ryan is a perfect fit for OKC and a excellent possible 3rd line filler (3 or 4 games max however) for the Oilers should the occasion arise through injury. His veteran leadership skills will be a asset to the the younger players around him. A great pro player with maturity and from most reports among peers, a positive attitude in the dressing room. This is why Ryan is a great TRANSITIONAL player for the Oilers organization. He covers most checkmarks required for a TRANSITIONAL style player. The Barons lost goal scoring and that is exactly what they are hoping Ryan brings to the OKC Barons.
Lennart Petrell
6'3 198 lbs
198
13 Apr 1984
History:
Petrell may be most famous for knocking out Michal Barinka in the World Junior Championships in what was considered a questionable hit. He was not a junior national team regular until 2003-04 when his offensive game flourished with the HIFK juniors.
HF Boards talent Analysis:
Lennart's physical, in-your-face play will earn him a reputation much like fellow fin Ville Niemenen. His physical play isn't his only upside, however, as his offensive ceiling is much higher. Petrell has all the tools to become a very solid player, including delicate hands and a soft touch. Whether or not Petrell will be able to continue to develop his offensive skills will remain to be seen, but developing his defensive game is a must. Petrell has been known to be reckless in his defensive end, often taking the high risk route, as opposed to making the simple play. Not only is this a result of his inadequate defensive game, but his lack of hockey sense as well. Both offensively and defensively, Petrell has questionable hockey sense.
Future potential:
Making the simple play is something that he struggles with, and something that he'll have to overcome in order to make a significant impact at any level hockey. Certainly given his physical stature and nasty attitude, though, he'll peak a lot of interest from other teams in the league as well, that will be forced to take notice of Petrell.
eliteprospects.com writer Matias Strozyk says:Lennart Petrell: A large forward who likes to check. Energetic and good with the puck. Offensively good. Petrell's main weaknesses are his defensive game and skating.
Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gi-B4UKuQTY
Last 4 years (No NHL or AHL experience):
2007-08 HIFK Helsinki SM-liiga Games 48 G 10 A 17 PTS 27
2008-09 HIFK Helsinki SM-liiga Games 43 G 7 A 13 PTS 20
2009-10 HIFK Helsinki SM-liiga Games 56 G 12 A 12 PTS 24
2010-11 HIFK Helsinki SM-liiga Games 56 G 13 A 22 PTS 35
revingevs TAKE:Lennart has been rumoured to be pushing for a center position should RNH get sent back to Jr in the WHL. Lennart is considered to be playing his best when he is flying on the left wing. Regardless, I think Lennart is a depth center who has the ability to be capable of handling some 4th line mins should the occasion arise, but to actually play ahead of some of the other centers in the system? It's a possibility, but highly unlikely. Lennart will be pushing alot of good players this year which is good for the team, but should he perform well, its very likely he has been told he is getting a fair shot to play for the big club right out of training camp or at the very least be a first call-up. A TRANSITIONAL player is his most likely high end.
Antti Tyrvainen
5' 10"
198
3 Apr 1989
eliteprospects.com writer Ulf Andersson says:
Antti Tyrvainen: An energy player with a fearless style of play. Variable with a good shot. Make some goals from rebounds. Aggressive, but sometimes the wrong decision. Dependent on good environment for success.
Big Hit:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4IbO0MTJhqg
Hockey Fight:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S65H_D0SmoA&feature=related
Last 3 years (No NHL or AHL experience):
2008-09 Pelicans SM-liiga Games 5 G 0 A 0 PTS 0
2009-10 Pelicans SM-liiga Games 32 G 8 A 3 PTS 11
2010-11 Pelicans SM-liiga Games 52 G 14 A 9 PTS 23
revingevs TAKE:
This guy hits, and hits hard! He is going to cause havoc on the ice every night he plays. He's going to
irratate some teams bad. He is exactly the type of players the Oilers are trying to build in the
organization. Hard working, checker and tenacious on the puck and body. The question for him will be, how does he adjust to a smaller ice surface. He won't have as much time to build up momentum in his hits but he will be in closer and tighter quarters and able to hit more.
He is young, has time to develop still and could even be a development player. I think he was brought in as a TRANSITIONAL player with the possibility of moving into a DEVELOPMENT player should he adjust well and have a good year. Interesting enough I find his style of play to be alot like the U20 Canadian player Dante Smith-Pelley. He's older but, 1 inch shorter, strong and built ford tough! Nice thing is, should we need a replacement to fill a role on the 4th line in Edmonton he may very well, fit that role. He will be in tough compeition as players like Hartikanen are more likely to get the call up first.
Corey Potter
6' 3"
206
5 Jan 1984
HF Boards report:
History:Was a 4th Round (122nd Overall), 2003 Draft by NY Rangers. Potter played two years with the National Under 18 team. Following the 2001-02 season, Potter left to begin his college hockey career at Michigan State University. His freshman season was a success, in that in 35 games, the defensive oriented Potter, accumulated 4 goals (3 game winners) and 4 assists and firmly entrenched himself into Michigan State’s line-up. 003-04:This season, his sophomore effort, Potter continued with his strong play. He picked up 8 assists in 38 games, but more importantly he was named Michigan State’s top defenseman. Potter also suited up for the United States at the 2004 World Junior Championships, where he helped the team win its first ever gold medal.
In 2004-05: After a pre-season shoulder injury, Potter had a developing year. He imporved his decision making and play in his own zone. He was used in all situations other than on the power play.
In 2005-06: Potter's final year at Michigan State was a very good one, in that he was a team leader and added defnsive potency to his game.
In 2006-07: The big blueliner split his first professional season between the ECHL Charlotte Checkers and the AHL Hartford Wolf Pack. He was a top defenseman at the ECHL level and played well in Hartford after he was recalled. Along came 2007-08: Potter had a very good sophomore professional season, showing that he has an offensive upside in addition to solid defensive skills.
However, he needed to improve his discipline, as Potter took over 100 PIM during the regular season. Not much of a fighter, most of Potter's penalties were due to either loose play or speed issues.
Talent Analysis:
Potter is mostly a defensive defenseman who can also play an offensive role when needed. He has good size and has filled out to 200 pounds, which helped him deliver some punishing hits. He’s a decent skater who has the ability to jump up into plays and help create offensive chances.
Fight:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1JrsCNX0cQY
Goal:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdVWOF1FrKM
Last 4 years outside of NHL play:
2007-08 Hartford Wolf Pack AHL Games 80 G 5 A 27 PTS 32
2008-09 Hartford Wolf Pack AHL Games 67 G 10 A 22 PTS 32
2009-10 Hartford Wolf Pack AHL Games 69 G 4 A 24 PTS 28
2010-11 Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins AHL Games 75 G 7 A 30 PTS 37
Last 3 years NHL work:
2008-09 New York Rangers NHL Games 5 G 1 A 1 PTS 2
2009-10 New York Rangers NHL Games 3 G 0 A 0 PTS 0
2010-11 Pittsburgh Penguins NHL Games 1 G 0 A 0 PTS 0
revingevs TAKE:Out of all the TRANSITIONAL players, I would say Potter has the closest chance of even having a chance to stick with the big club. To make the team it will require a few things to fall into place and the stars to allign just right. I don't think that is realistic though and look to see him tending the OKC blueline in the very near future. He's a good hard worker, fairly smooth skater, has loads of AHL experience and will be a great mentor for the younger players. I wouldn't be surprised even if Potter was paired with Plante on the blueline. In fact Potter could very well be the type of leader and mentor Plante could use to get over that next hurdle and be NHL ready.
This is what makes Corey such a good TRANSITIONAL player. He can be a solid player in the AHL, mentor and if needed through injury or say trade, fill in on the blueline with the Oilers. Not to mention should he be called up to play, he could easily fit into that 7th defenceman role quite well and not complain while in it. (Better salary in the NHL versus the AHL , so who would complain?) I like his upside in a limited role and I believe he is one of the better TRANSITIONAL role players we currently have.
Yann Danis
6' 0"
185
21 Jun 1981
Great Stick Save:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EoUak4lv_jA&playnext=1&list=PL3536E31763140CD8
"The Hockey News" says...
ASSETS: Is a cool customer under pressure. Plays a steady, mature game between the pipes. Usually lets the puck hit him and is rarely out of position.
FLAWS: Is a little undersized and must improve his lateral mobility. Needs to show he can consistently string together quality starts at the big-league level.
CAREER POTENTIAL: Backup goaltender
Outside the NHL:
2004-05 Hamilton Bulldogs AHL Games 53 AVG. 2.34 SP .924
2005-06 Hamilton Bulldogs AHL Games 39 AVG 2.97 SP .902
2006-07 Hamilton Bulldogs AHL Games 44 AVG. 2.81 SP .905
2007-08 Hamilton Bulldogs AHL Games 38 AVG. 3.28 SP .893
2008-09 Bridgeport Sound Tigers AHL Games 10AVG. 2.26 SP.924
2010-11 Khabarovsk Amur KHL Games 31 AVG 3.05 SP.910
In the NHL:
2005-06 Montreal Canadiens NHL Games 6 AVG. 2.69 SP .908
2008-09 New York Islanders NHL Games 31 AVG. 2.86 SP .910
2009-10 New Jersey Devils NHL Games 12 AVG. 2.05 SP .923
revingevs TAKE:I know the Oilers are high on picking up Danis and seem to feel pretty confident in his role with the
organization, but I have some concerns. In 7 years in the AHL only twice did he post a Goals against average over .915 and only once in the NHL. Only one time in the NHL did he post a better avaerage and that was with the NJ Devils (we know what kind of game they play). If it were up to me, Danis signing would be to fulfill a back-up role in OKC but unfortunately it will be a #1 role with the possibility of pushing for a role with the Oilers should a injury occur. He is a TRANSITIONAL goaltender in the sense that he is a very confident and mature goalie and will be a good mentor for Oliver Roy (should he get some time in OKC to work together) but as far as being good enough to be a NHL back up for 4 or 5 games? I would say no. Love the guy, not certain about the player.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Sunday, August 7, 2011
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-
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-
What Gets Us Found:
Alexander Bumagin,
edmonton oilers,
Kristians Pelss,
Milan Kytnar,
Oklahoma City Barons,
Philippe Cornet,
prospects,
Ryan O'Marra
Saturday, August 6, 2011
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....
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.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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....
What Gets Us Found:
Alex Plante,
Bubble Players,
edmonton oilers,
Johan Motin,
Oklahoma City Barons,
Taylor Chorney,
Toni Rajala
Friday, August 5, 2011
Summer Prospect OR Summer Suspect
A big hello to all you fanatical oiler followers at Oilersjambalaya.com Looking forward to being a part of a bigger community of Oiler faithful! Not sure about you, but summer can be a real downer for even the strongest of the oiler family. I mean, no playoffs , means a long summer. Thankfully we were fortunate this summer. Following the Stanley Cup we had the NHL 2011 Draft (where drafting #1 overall does not hurt), we had Free Agent frenzy (where we went crazy, unlike many other years). Next up, came
the Edmonton Oiler Summer Development Camp (this camp was loaded with the best talent yet in the system), followed now by the Canadian World Jr's U20 evaluation camp (where 3 Oiler prospects are attempting to put themselves into contention on the team). In fact I plan on attending the Canadian U20 world jr red/white game on Saturday night with several thousands of others. My bet? 70% are there to see the Oiler prospects (Center) Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, (Goaltender) Tyler Bunz and (defenceman) Dillion Simpson. (to which probably 80% of the crowd is there to see RNH.)
So needless to say, it's been a active summer and we still struggle to find things to discuss.
We are discussing topics like "Who plays with who , on what line?" OR
"Why do we keep trading injured players?". All great questions but let's face it, they have been covered how many times? By how many writers? and discussed by how many fans? That's what brings me to my topic today. (Summer Prospect OR Summer Suspect?)
With Summer brings a new feeling (for Oiler fans, a sense of hope we can WIN next year), and with that feeling comes a new sense of hope as well for our Oiler Prospects. I have been asked 'why do you even care about following these young prospects?' My answer is simple...they are still playing for two reasons 1)A Career 2)For the love of the game. Money and contracts are really not a part of their current language at this time. Now don't get me wrong, I know they are looking forward to some big pay cheques one day. But not today, it's one day at a time, working and developing so ONE day, they might fulfill that dream. All you have to do is be around them in their schools, in their communities, follow them on twitter, and you will see, they LOVE the game. It's refreshing.
It makes me want to hurry up and get my community recreation hockey fix in now! Not wait til the end of September! I guess, the other reason I love to follow prospects is because it's always fun to guess who will be the next NHL bound player. Who makes it and who doesn't? Unfortunately for some...they won't. Sad as it is, they got a chance to at least follow a dream many of us only wish we had enough talent to even pursue. Others will continue playing. Maybe not in the NHL, maybe they are career minor pro players. They play as AHL veterans, or continue to play in Europe. Some will continue with great teams such as our Stockton Thunder (who don't forget, is a team that develops our players as well). Is it the NHL? Nope, but it's hockey and it's what they love to do.
Enough said, I could go on forever. Tomorrow I will release my first of a three part posting on the theme "Summer Prospect OR Summer Suspect?". We will discuss and breakdown the Oiler Prospects who fall into 1 of 3 categories. BUBBLE Player (those who this year is probably their last chance to make a impression). DEVELOPMENT Player (those who are still developing and need not worry about job security at the end of the year), and TRANSITIONAL Player (those whose job is to tend the farm. Be leaders within our farm teams, and fill in when needed on the big club, and help the others break through to the NHL). While all the players I mention may fall into what I believe is one of those categories, that does not mean, they could not catch on with yet another NHL club somewhere else. Possibly our cupboards and fridge are starting to overflow and some sifting may be in order?
And I say "It's about time".....STAY TUNED!
-WRITTEN BY REVINEV-
the Edmonton Oiler Summer Development Camp (this camp was loaded with the best talent yet in the system), followed now by the Canadian World Jr's U20 evaluation camp (where 3 Oiler prospects are attempting to put themselves into contention on the team). In fact I plan on attending the Canadian U20 world jr red/white game on Saturday night with several thousands of others. My bet? 70% are there to see the Oiler prospects (Center) Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, (Goaltender) Tyler Bunz and (defenceman) Dillion Simpson. (to which probably 80% of the crowd is there to see RNH.)
So needless to say, it's been a active summer and we still struggle to find things to discuss.
We are discussing topics like "Who plays with who , on what line?" OR
"Why do we keep trading injured players?". All great questions but let's face it, they have been covered how many times? By how many writers? and discussed by how many fans? That's what brings me to my topic today. (Summer Prospect OR Summer Suspect?)
With Summer brings a new feeling (for Oiler fans, a sense of hope we can WIN next year), and with that feeling comes a new sense of hope as well for our Oiler Prospects. I have been asked 'why do you even care about following these young prospects?' My answer is simple...they are still playing for two reasons 1)A Career 2)For the love of the game. Money and contracts are really not a part of their current language at this time. Now don't get me wrong, I know they are looking forward to some big pay cheques one day. But not today, it's one day at a time, working and developing so ONE day, they might fulfill that dream. All you have to do is be around them in their schools, in their communities, follow them on twitter, and you will see, they LOVE the game. It's refreshing.
It makes me want to hurry up and get my community recreation hockey fix in now! Not wait til the end of September! I guess, the other reason I love to follow prospects is because it's always fun to guess who will be the next NHL bound player. Who makes it and who doesn't? Unfortunately for some...they won't. Sad as it is, they got a chance to at least follow a dream many of us only wish we had enough talent to even pursue. Others will continue playing. Maybe not in the NHL, maybe they are career minor pro players. They play as AHL veterans, or continue to play in Europe. Some will continue with great teams such as our Stockton Thunder (who don't forget, is a team that develops our players as well). Is it the NHL? Nope, but it's hockey and it's what they love to do.
Enough said, I could go on forever. Tomorrow I will release my first of a three part posting on the theme "Summer Prospect OR Summer Suspect?". We will discuss and breakdown the Oiler Prospects who fall into 1 of 3 categories. BUBBLE Player (those who this year is probably their last chance to make a impression). DEVELOPMENT Player (those who are still developing and need not worry about job security at the end of the year), and TRANSITIONAL Player (those whose job is to tend the farm. Be leaders within our farm teams, and fill in when needed on the big club, and help the others break through to the NHL). While all the players I mention may fall into what I believe is one of those categories, that does not mean, they could not catch on with yet another NHL club somewhere else. Possibly our cupboards and fridge are starting to overflow and some sifting may be in order?
And I say "It's about time".....STAY TUNED!
-WRITTEN BY REVINEV-
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