The NHL Lockout Is Over!

As of a few hours ago, the NHL and NHLPA have agreed on a ten year deal.

THE OILERS ARE BACK!

REVS 2013 NHL DRAFT PROSPECTS #6. Curtis Lazar Oiler prospect news and the 2013 or 2014 NHL draft watch, go to www.twitter.com/revingev

#6. Curtis Lazar

Curtis is a player whose mold is very different from several other players out there. Even though his height and weight and build are not HUGE, he plays huge on the ice. Much like Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Curtis knows how to carry himself on the ice and has a very strong core and has real strong legs. Seldom do you find Lazar losing battles in the corners and he definitely has good hockey sense on the ice. 

For some, Curtis offensive numbers may scare them off this coming draft in the top 6 at this time. I really did think he would produce more by this time but to my eyes it looks like he is still taking a back seat to other offensive stars on this team with 1st minute PP time and in fact many a night Curtis and his line are required to shutdown the other teams best line. I really like his two way game but am a little uncertain as far as his upside with offensive potential. I believe he possess the potential to be a #2 center in the NHL but not sure he will become a great offensive number. At this stage of his growth, I would say he is most likely looking like a Horcoff type player. Even a 3rd Center on any team is not a small feat and should the Oilers get their hands on him at a later draft slot (i.e.: 8-12th) it could solidify that third line minimum for years to come. Here is hoping we see a surge in Lazar's offensive numbers going into the later part of the season and into the playoffs. At this point of time, Curtis has fallen back in my Rankings but until I release my new rankings in late March, he will still have a chance to at least maintain his place at #6 for my REVS 2013 Draft Rankings.

  Use/Embed statistics 

Season	Team	League	GP	G	A	TP	PIM	+/-		Postseas.	GP	G	A	TP	PIM	+/-
2010-11	Okanagan Hockey Academy	Midget	45	26	32	58	71		|
	Okanagan Hockey Academy Prep	CSSHL	6	4	5	9	4		|	Playoffs	1	0	0	0	0
	Edmonton Oil Kings	WHL	6	0	1	1	0	2	|	Playoffs	4	1	0	1	0	0
2011-12	Edmonton Oil Kings	WHL	63	20	11	31	56	15	|	Playoffs	20	8	11	19	4	9
	Canada Pacific U17	WHC-17	5	2	1	3	4		|
2012-13	Edmonton Oil Kings	WHL	35	15	11	26	20	8	|
Tournament Statistics
2010-11	Team British Columbia	CWG	6	12	5	17	2		|
2011-12	Edmonton Oil Kings	M-Cup	4	0	1	1	0	0	|
2012-13	Canada U18	MIH	5	3	1	4	2		|

Video highlights 'Curtis Lazar'

For Oiler prospect news and the 2013 or 2014 NHL draft watch, go to www.twitter.com/revingev

'In Defence of NAIL'

Is Nail Yakupov a 'Prima Dona'? Is Nail Yakupov selfish and not a team player? Did we make a mistake drafting Nail rather then Ryan Murray or Galchenyuk? The questions are a plenty when it comes to Nail Yakupov.

Everyone is entitled to their hockey opinion and in the case of Yakupov, most opinion's right now are showing a down arrow. Sure, some MSM and bloggers and even some fans are giving the benefit of the doubt saying they are not going to read too much into it. 

I for one, am a person who will live or die with my assessments be it good or bad. I said from the moment the 2011 Nugent-Hopkins Draft was completed, that Yakupov was the greatest talent available and was head a shoulders above all the other eligible draftees. When draft time came and people of Edmonton were in a panic about the potential decision to maybe take Ryan Murray , I sat comfortably in my easy chair awaiting to hear the words...'Nail Yakupov'. 

As has been mentioned by several articles in the MSM and in blogs everywhere Nail has not been the dominant player for some time. (Since beginning of Subway series). Still today, I am a believer of Nail and while Nail is not looking like the #1 Pick OV at this moment, Nail is also not under performing.

We all know he has gone through a lot emotionally and physically these past 8 months. With that saying, this is one fan and blogger who is willing to defend and back Nail up for what we are seeing for on ice production.

Arguments against Yakupov's Performance;

1) Not a team player. Will shoot when he should pass.

2) Floats too much at the blue line and not being defensively aware enough

3) Does not show hard ethic and takes some shifts off

4) Not scoring a point per game in the KHL any longer

5) Should have produced more points at the Subway Series against Jr players

6) Producing only 1 point per game in U20 World Championships

7) Is a big mouth and brags too much

8) Won't speak to MSM after winning against Swiss

....the list goes on.

In Defence of Yakupov;

1) His schedule has not seen a match when it comes to International travel. No player, Jr or PRO has seen the travel he has over these months.

2) Has made a coaching adjustment from Sarnia to KHL-Russian National Team-KHL-Russian National Team. That is not even accounting for some new things that he was taught at Oilers Development Camp last July that he will be trying to develop on in game situations. Each Coach has a different way they want the game played and Nail IMO is a player who will best succeed with good structure.

3) Quality of linemates. His linemates are ok skill level, but none are world class or even high end skill. That includes not only his National Team but also his KHL team. It still puzzles me how the Russian coaching does not play Yakupov and Grigorenko together at least on the PP in games or at least when the game is on the line.

4) No one ever said Yakupov was a leader and should be Captain of Russia. He has been criticized for not being the leader a captain should be (Maybe the reason he is trying to hard? Just a suggestion). Some say he should not have accepted the role then. Really? Then all fans do is criticize Nail for not appreciating the honour given to him and acting like a baby. He is doomed if he does and doomed if he doesn't.

5) Yakupov speaks in his Russian language and gets blasted by Canadians for saying 'dirty'. When later it gets discovered the word is misinterpreted media start saying he is just back tracking. When he declines a interview (which is common in Russia, unlike North America) people are freaking out cause he is acting like a Prima-Dona. What? Sure maybe he should have done that interview, but chances are pretty high MSM and bloggers the world round, were just looking for more material to bury his backside.

6) Nail is the type of player who excels best when he does not have to carry the workload and that will be evident IMO when he starts playing with the Oilers Skill players like Eberle, RNH, Hall, Schultz, etc...The best quality linemate Nail has really played with was Alex Galchenyuk and we all know how well that went. For those saying you can't be a superstar player unless you can carry the load yourself. Really? OK how about we let Yakupov focus on his one timers and pounce in 35 plus goals a season. Maybe not superstar like but definitely a rare commodity in the NHL.

7) Why does Nail shoot when he should pass? Because he believes he can score. He will over time learn when to pass more but in the mean time , this is one fan who appreciates that a player has a shoot first mentality.

8) Nail has always had a tendency to float around the blue line waiting for a quick pass. Some of that will be learning when and where to do it in game situations. Professional coaching will make the difference with Nail, that I am confident of. Nail just needs a few stronger personalities to lead him and you will see him grow in leaps and bounds. No offence to all his past coach's, including the KHL but they are NOT NHL coaching material.

9) Hard work ethic is subjective. One person may say he shows lots while another will totally disagree. Yakupov strives to win and every winner knows you need to work hard. Watch all the greats play hockey and sometimes you can find a shift where they can appear as if they are not working hard enough.

10) Even though several people think he is under producing, it only showing how good he really is. If Yakupov producing a ppg in Jr against the best in the world is his worst, I am willing to be patient for a player like that. Producing just under a ppg in the KHL as a 19 year old, plays between 14-16 mins a game only and is not always on the #1 PP unit and on 3rd line lots of games. Thats not good? Folks who think otherwise, need to spend some more time learning the game of hockey. His ppg production in the KHL is exactly where I thought it would be and even mentioned so here at Oilers Jambalaya.

I could go on for my reasons to defend Nail Yakupov but truth is, he does not need myself or anyone else to come to his defence. Give him some space, finish this tourney, either complete his first full season in the KHL or get a NHL half season completed and we will not even be having this same conversation.

Granted, we have not seen the best from Nail Yakupov in a couple months, but if this is his worst, I can't wait to see his best. IMO, Nail needs to get back over to the North American ice and start his NHL coaching and physical development. I look forward to seeing Nail debut in a Oilers uniform, and for what it's worth, I am totally ok with his learning his trade on the 3rd line and earning his ice time as coach recognizes he is ready to take on more responsibility. Let Nail earn his time with Horcoff on the 3rd line and give him #2 PP unit time. He will produce, he is too much all world talent not too.

Welcome to 'Nail Country'

For Oiler prospect news and the 2013 or 2014 NHL draft watch, go to www.twitter.com/revingev 

8 Questions in Oil Country

While my blogs have been few and far between , not to mention my time on twitter, I have been busy following the CHL, AHL, KHL, Swedish Elite,  Finish Elite and the U20 World Jr Championships. Lots of late nights, lots of PVR'ing and while I may have sounded silent these last couple months, I have been still busy enjoying all the hockey fix I can get. Don't think I have followed so much in depth updates on the 2013 NHL Draft ranking either. I have been behind on some of my usual updates with my draft rankings so will be getting back on top of the updates soon in the new year of 2013 very soon.

As we have done in the past, I am listing some questions that I get from various followers on twitter, facebook and here at Oilers Jambalaya. The following are the 8 Questions and my best response to them;

1) What are your impressions on Tobias Rieder this year? Has he taken a step back or has there been a injury we don't know of that has hindered his scoring ability?

It has been a rough year but not for lack of effort. Actually I would have to say that while production has dropped off Tobias has really improved his defensive side of the game in leaps and bounds and has really become a much stronger player in one on one battles. There are some reasons for his drop in play. His Kitchner team has lost some big time skill as well as his world jr team is very weak for skill. Tobias is the type of a player who produces points better as a complimentary player rather then as the star who carries the game. I don't have any worries at this point. Next season he will likely turn pro and get a chance in OKC to hone his skills. As far as what has caused his big drop in point production? I am puzzled but if you watch him on the ice you will see he is always in the right position, works hard and just seems to be snake-bitten.

2) What did you do during the Christmas break? Watch much Jr hockey?

Actually besides watching lots of hockey with the Jrs, as a family we put together our 2nd Annual Christmas Music Video. What is fast becoming a popular Boxing day past time, we came up with a dandy this year....Check it out! (only thing missing is Santa in a Oilers Jersey...hmmm?)

"I am Santa Claus" by The Renaerts Family

3) What are your thoughts on Hall and Eberle in OKC?

These two are absolutely insane when watching them compete against AHL players. While it is so easy to see them shine as greater talent on the ice, it has also provided them the opportunity to work on their defensive side of the game. They both know this season in OKC is about more then just stats and winning, its about development. It also is making them a big target against any team they face. They receive the best defence every night and in the AHL it is borderline dirty hockey on occasion. Can only make them better right? Only time will tell! The thing I like the best is they get to continue to work on chemistry together and also allows proper time for Hall to return from his surgery.

4) Do you think we will see the Oilers play in 2013?

The best answer I can give is....How can they not play? Too much money is at stake for the players to not take a deal in time to salvage a season. If the owners lose this season it will only be a greater demand from owners to not cave in with a full season of revenue lost. 

5) Is Nail Yakupov looking more like a future problem then a future star?

Granted since Yakupov went to play in the subway series, his play has looked to be more problematic as far as team work. There are some things to consider about this young player. Even in Sarnia scouts have gone on record as saying there were times when Nail would try to do too much on his own. Even with his team in the KHL it has been happening. His few games after the subway series he seemed to be struggling with consistent high end play.

Playing with less skill can cause someone who has those game breaking abilities to take on more then they can chew.  Good news is....when Nail plays for Edmonton, they will coach individual play out of him, it's the NHL. Not to mention he will be playing with world class talent throughout the line-up in the top 9 regardless. RNH even commented that going from Jr to Pro was easier skill wise cause the other skill out there made things easier. It was the work ethic, speed and toughness that was the big jump. I would not be too concerned about Yakupov producing in the NHL this year OR next, whenever the NHL does start up again.

Nail Yakupov 2012 NHL Entry Draft

6) Should RNH not have more production playing against boys in the U20 World Jr, rather then men in the NHL? 

Something needs to be understood about RNH's game. He is a all around forward who is as good defensively as he is with his offence. (Despite critics who feel he is only a offensive player) He will light it up with 3 points or more on occasional nights but his big contribution wherever he goes will be his creative playmaking and his ability to control the puck in all circumstances. What puzzles me is the lack of use on the PK for Team Canada. Nugent-Hopkins is still growing into his body and will only get better as time goes on. Remember he is the same age as his linemates just has more pedigree and experience. Some tend to think RNH is a 22 year old or something. Truth is, take RNH out of Team Canada line-up and Team Canada will likely have no chance to win this tourney. 

(RNH's NHL Quality shot)

7) Should the Oilers play a 48 game season, what are the chances of making the playoffs?

With Eberle, Hall, Nugent-Hopkins, Hemsky, Gagner, Smid, Yakupov, Petrell and Schultz all playing on teams this year the Oilers will have a bit of a step up in on-ice preparation. With Ryan Smyth  and Dubynk getting some playing time in the Spengler Cup it should benefit them as well. I expect the Oilers will come out of the gates flying.

Personally I would rather they get one last chance at another lottery pick but at this point progression is more important. My best guess is they finish in 7th-12th in the Western Conference should we see a shortened year.

8) Based on their play for Team Canada, is Johnathan Drouin not looking like a better chance to get drafted higher then Nathan MacKinnon?

While Drouin has done well and played far above most people's expectations, MacKinnon is more a versatile player who is showing he can play a supportive role for Team Canada. He has the ability to play on Wing, at Center, be a depth player or be a skill player in top 6. Drouin has better top end skill with his stick handling and passes and hockey sense but MacKinnon has such great work ethic, incredible drive and speed that is making players 3 years his elder look slow. Give Nathan a top 6 role like Drouin and he will produce. Thing is Drouin fills that role well and Nathan will fill any spot that is needed on this team.

MacKinnon just recently turned 17

Top end Skill displayed by Drouin 

For Oiler prospect news and the 2013 or 2014 NHL draft watch, go to www.twitter.com/revingev 

Hockey 4 Christmas?

While the NHL has let us down as fans yet again the World Jr Championships should take care of at least 75% of Canadian Hockey fans thirst for Hockey. I have been tempted to comment several times on this NHL lockout in depth with different perspectives and ways to look at this mess called the NHL and NHLPA but I have decided to stay neutral and await the 'Greatest Game on Earth. 

(My opinion anyway)

As a devout Oiler fan I will be back, like it or not but this is one fan who will not invest anything extra in game day tickets this season and will watch from the cozy confines of my 'MANCAVE'. I do hope we get at least a partial season but all one can do is hope 2013 holds a better future in CBA negotiations the 2012 did.

(Me and my Dreams of a Oiler Christmas)

Rumour has it Devan Dubynk is off to play in the Spengler Cup for Team Canada. Do I like that idea? Any action is better to be in game shape should this season resume mid January 2013.

 

 (a sight to behold at the Edmonton International Airport)

Nail Yakupov seemed to take a step back since the Subway Series and has fallen off in his production back in the KHL. Hopefully a strong effort at the World Jr's will help him regain some of that confidence he has carried so well these past 2 years. It's his time to shine. Truly great players always rise above adversity and it's Nail's time to show the world he is a world class player. I am guessing he scores around 1.2 points per game in this tournament. 

(Nail Yakupov competing in KHL)

The 'Nuge' has gone to play for Team Canada at the World Jr's and Hall, Eberle and Justin Schultz continue to light up the AHL. Truth is, they are getting in game shape and working on the defensive side of their game in a league that is all about development. Soon, we hope to see this dynamic group in action against the best in the World.

(Skills on Display)

Time will only tell if this group of young talent in the Oilers Organization will be able to be championship calibre. What we do know for sure is development means playing. The Oilers have done well in ensuring all their young talent is playing in a NHL lockout season. Maybe some good planning by Tamby? Not sold on his abilities to assemble a team outside of the draft but Tamby has done well for the Oilers in 'Development'.

Merry Christmas Everyone and a Happy New Year!

For Oiler prospect news and the 2013 or 2014 NHL draft watch, go to www.twitter.com/revingev