The Oilers have been active in adjusting their roster as they gear up for the playoffs, bringing up promising players like Raphael Lavoie, Olivier Rodrigue, and Lane Pederson. With the upcoming matchup against the Vancouver Canucks, there’s a sense of excitement despite their winless record against their Pacific Division rivals in the regular season. The team believes they can step up their game now that the stakes are higher.
Fortunately, the Oilers are fielding one of their strongest rosters in the Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl era, and they’re relatively healthy compared to earlier in the season. Although Evander Kane and Adam Henrique missed practice for a couple of days due to maintenance reasons, they’re expected to be ready for the first game against Vancouver.
In preparation, the Oilers have brought up seven players from the Bakersfield Condors, each with their own strengths and contributions:
Raphael Lavoie: Lavoie had a standout season in Bakersfield, leading the Condors in goals and setting personal bests in various categories. While his NHL debut with the Oilers was limited in impact, he showed promise.
Adam Erne: Despite limited ice time both in Edmonton and Bakersfield, Erne brings a solid defensive game if needed.
Lane Pederson: Pederson had a strong season in Bakersfield, although he didn’t feature for the Oilers this year. He brings NHL experience from previous seasons.
Olivier Rodrigue: Rodrigue had an impressive season in Bakersfield, establishing himself as a reliable goaltender and earning a contract extension.
Philip Kemp: Kemp made his NHL debut this season and proved himself as a reliable defenseman in Bakersfield.
Ben Gleason: Gleason had a consistent season with the Condors and has some NHL experience, although his return to the big leagues might not be immediate.
Cam Dineen: Dineen adds NHL experience to the lineup and provided offensive support from the blue line in Bakersfield this season.