Edmonton Oilers
When it comes to hockey, fans are always looking for the next big thing. They want to know which young players are going to emerge as the future stars of the game. And this is why the minor league and farm system of a team can often be just as interesting as the main roster. Minor hockey is where the foundation for future success is laid, and it’s where exciting young talent can be found. And in the world of hockey, one team’s farm system that is gaining a lot of attention is that of the Edmonton Oilers.
The Oilers, based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, are a member of the National Hockey League (NHL), but they also have several minor league affiliates that make up their farm system. These teams exist to develop young players and provide a place for them to hone their skills and prepare for the NHL. And in recent years, the oilers’ farm system has been making a lot of noise. With young talent making waves both on the ice and in the minor league standings, it’s clear that the future is bright for the Edmonton Oilers.
Let’s take a closer look at the Edmonton Oilers farm system, the prospects that are on the rise, and what fans can expect from the team’s future.
The Bakersfield Condors
The Bakersfield Condors, based in Bakersfield, California, are the primary minor league affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers. They play in the American Hockey League (AHL), which is the top-tier minor league system in North America. The Condors have a strong history of developing talent for the NHL, with players like Jonathon Toews and T. J. Oshie passing through their ranks.
One of the most exciting prospects currently playing for the Condors is defenseman Evan Bouchard. The 20-year-old from Oakville, Ontario, was the 10th overall pick in the 2018 NHL Draft and has already proven himself to be a top defenseman in the AHL. In his first professional season with the Condors, Bouchard put up 36 points in 54 games and was named an AHL All-Star. With his offensive abilities and strong skating skills, he is poised to make an impact on the Oilers’ back end in the near future.
Another name to watch on the Condors is Kailer Yamamoto. The right winger was drafted 22nd overall by the Oilers in the 2017 NHL Draft and has been playing for the Condors for the past two seasons. In his most recent season, Yamamoto has recorded 26 points in 27 games and has shown great chemistry with fellow Oilers’ prospect Cooper Marody. With his speed and playmaking abilities, Yamamoto could soon be making his way to Edmonton.
Europe, the CHL, and More
In addition to their AHL affiliate, the Edmonton Oilers also have prospects playing in various leagues and regions all over the world. One of the most intriguing prospects is forward Jesse Puljujärvi. The 22-year-old from Finland was drafted 4th overall by the Oilers in the 2016 NHL Draft but has struggled to find his footing in the NHL. He has since been playing in the Finnish League and has been performing well, leading many to wonder if he will make a return to the Oilers in the near future.
The Oilers also have several prospects currently playing in the Canadian Hockey League (CHL), the top junior league in North America. Players like Dylan Holloway (University of Wisconsin), Philip Broberg (Skellefteå AIK in Sweden), and Carter Savoie (Sherwood Park Crusaders in the AJHL) are all turning heads in their respective leagues and could one day become key players for the Oilers.
The Future Looks Bright
With a mix of young players developing in the AHL, Europe, and the CHL, the Edmonton Oilers have a promising future ahead. And while the focus may currently be on the team’s standouts at the NHL level, such as Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, there is no doubt that the Oilers’ farm system will continue to churn out talented players for years to come.
So, whether you’re a die-hard Oilers fan or just someone interested in following the latest prospects in hockey, the Edmonton Oilers farm system is definitely worth paying attention to. With a mix of skill, potential, and determination, the young players in the Oilers’ organization are sure to bring success to the team in the near future.
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