Let me just come out and say it: I don’t like the idea of a post-Ekholm Oilers blue line. I don’t. Since he got here from Nashville at the 2023 trade deadline, Mattias Ekholm has been nothing short of a rock defensively, a calming presence, a smooth passer, and an absolute gift to this team when they needed more stability on the back end.
But we’ve got to be honest about the situation, too. Ekholm turns 36 next May. As we speak today, he’s entering the final year of his contract with a $6 million cap hit, and, while he still plays at a high level when he’s healthy, there’s always risk when you start talking about extending guys into their late 30s. Still, when you hear him talk about Edmonton, it’s impossible not to root for the scenario that keeps Big Viking Daddy in blue and orange.
That quote says everything you need to know about the kind of teammate Mattias Ekholm is. He knows the spotlight is (rightfully) on Connor McDavid’s contract extension, and that he’ll have to wait to start talks on his own deal, but he also knows what he brings to the table. And you know what? He’s right. His play through most of his time as an Oiler has earned him every bit of this conversation.
Why Ekholm matters so much
Since arriving, Ekholm’s pairing with Evan Bouchard has helped elevate the young defender’s game in every possible way, stabilize the Oilers’ breakout, and give Kris Knoblauch a top pairing that could be trusted in all situations. He plays big minutes, wins puck battles, kills penalties, breaks up the forecheck, and gets thrown out there in basically any situation. There’s no panic in Ekholm’s game. Just poise, toughness, and a pretty damned good first pass.
The problem, of course, is that the last time we saw Ekholm suit up for the Oilers, he wasn’t exactly at his best. Clearly injured, though we didn’t know what was really going on until Friday, we saw the big defender struggle to play at the level we needed him to, even though it’s completely understandable now that we know what he was dealing with.
Now that he’s had the summer to recover and is coming into camp healthy again, I wonder if the Oilers will wait until they see how he’s doing before engaging in contract talks, McDavid extension or not. I also wonder what the team would even be interested in tabling for him when it comes to term. Let’s be honest, as good as he is now, that cliff can run up in a hurry for guys in the back half of their 30s. I want Mattias Ekholm to extend, but if he’s looking for security, what exactly does that mean when it comes to years on paper?
But let’s be real about age and term
Here’s where it gets tricky: Ekholm will be 36 when any new deal kicks in. If you’re giving him more than two years, you’re walking into risky territory. Not because I don’t believe in the player — I do — but because professional sports are cruel and time is always undefeated. And with the Oilers already paying Nurse, Bouchard, Draisaitl, and budgeting big money for Connor McDavid, it’s fair to wonder how much they can afford on the blue line without hamstringing the rest of the roster.
That doesn’t mean you let Ekholm walk. It just means Stan Bowman has to find the right balance between loyalty, performance, and cap management. Not to mention, Jake Walman is another left-handed d-man that will need a new contract, and he could get prioritized because of his age relative to the rest of the team. But if there’s a way to extend Ekholm on a shorter-term deal with a manageable AAV, I’d be all in. If he wants three or four years at a number that starts with a six, that’s a tougher conversation, even with the cap shooting skyward over the next few seasons.
The ideal world? He stays. But on a short-term deal.
I want Mattias Ekholm to retire as an Oiler. I want his leadership in the room and his stability on the ice. I want that bearded ruggedness guiding the youth in the locker room. I want his consistency on the back end. But I also want the Oilers to be smart about how they build this next era of Cup contention. The core is aging, the window is now, and every decision matters more than ever.
Ekholm gets it. He’s realistic. He wants security for his family, and he’s earned the right to ask for it. Let’s just hope there’s a way to make it work — one that lets both the player and the team keep pushing for the ultimate goal without putting handcuffs on the future. Because if the Oilers are going to win it all, I want Ekholm’s beard in the Cup parade. Simple as that.
THE #NATIONVACATION TO VANCOUVER
It’s a Battle of the West, and you’re riding shotgun with the Nation. Edmonton is heading to Vancouver and we want you in the lineup. Join The Nation crew for a weekend full of hockey, high-fives, and good ol’ fashioned rivalry.
We’re flying out to Vancouver for a showdown on October 26th, but that’s not all we’re throwing an exclusive, invite-only Nation Watch Party on Saturday night (Oct 25) as Edmonton takes on Seattle. Expect food and drink specials, giveaways, and more Nation-style chaos than a third-period line brawl.
Massive shoutout to our MVP travel star, Chelsey Labelle at Expedia Cruises North East Edmonton, for making this trip happen.
We have a package for every fan! So travel your way at NationGear.ca
Oilersnation is reviving the Top 100 Edmonton Oilers of All Time list, a project originally created by the late Robin Brownlee in 2015. Bernie Nicholls comes in at No. 83 on our updated 2025 list. He was ranked No. 65 on Brownlee’s original list.
Bernie Nicholls was supposed to help take the sting off of losing Mark Messier, and he did — just not for long. He arrived alongside Louie DeBrusk and Steven Rice, with future considerations David Shaw later arriving in Edmonton and Jeff Beukeboom heading east, and for a short time, Nicholls was tremendous.
Notable
While the Messier trade was consummated in early October of 1999, it wasn’t until early December that Nicholls actually joined the team, as his wife, who was expecting twins, was put on 23 hours a day of bedrest at 28 weeks pregnant. Even when he did, rumours swirled about a trade with the Toronto Maple Leafs that would’ve sent him, Petr Klim, and Troy Mallette east for Daniel Marios, Rob Pearson, and Michel Petit.
When he did arrive, he did so swiftly, scoring 20 goals and 49 points in 49 games that year, finishing sixth in goals and fifth in points. The Oilers would make the playoffs and go on a run, eventually getting swept in the Campbell Conference Finals by the Chicago Blackhawks, but Nicholls made his mark, with eight goals and 19 points in 16 games.
He followed it up with eight goals and 40 points in 46 games in 1992-93, but ultimately, Nicholls didn’t want to be in Edmonton. He would get traded to the New Jersey Devils on in January 1993 for Zdeno Ciger and Kevin Todd.
The Story
If there were a Hockey Hall of Very Good, Nicholls would be in it. He was a fourth-round pick who played 1127 NHL games for six teams across 18 seasons. That kind of longevity is hard to come by, as just 169 players in the league’s 107-year-old history have played at least 18 seasons. He racked up 475 goals and 1209 points, but he never won an award and never hoisted Lord Stanley’s Mug.
Drafted by the Los Angeles Kings in the fourth round of the 1980 draft, he spent eight and a half seasons there — the longest stop of any team — before being dealt to the Rangers for Tony Granato and Tomas Sandstrom. His time there didn’t last long and was even shorter in Edmonton, though his pitstop in New Jersey was the shortest of any, playing just 84 games.
He’d close out the final five years of his career with the Chicago Blackhawks and San Jose Sharks, signing with each as a free agent.
Edmonton Journal. Saturday, December 07, 1991
What Brownlee said
The Last 10
- No. 93 — Dave Manson
- No. 92 — Willy Lindstrom
- No. 91 — Sheldon Souray
- No. 90 — Pat Maroon
- No. 89 — Mark Napier
- No. 88 — Igor Ulanov
- No. 87 — Zdeno Ciger
- No. 86 — Devan Dubnyk
- No. 85 — Jaroslav Pouzar
- No. 84 — Jarret Stoll
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David Tomasek walked up to me in the hallway below the stands of the Downtown Community Arena after his fifth Captain Skate with some of his new Oilers teammates. His dark brown hair was peeking out of the back of his helmet as he greeted me with a huge smile surrounded by a goatee.
It was obvious his HockeyDB page was incorrect in listing him at 6-foot-1 and 187 pounds. He is just over 6-foot-2 and is a solid 210 pounds. His size is noticeable when you compare him to the other new players in Edmonton, like Matt Savoie, Ike Howard, Andrew Mangiapane, and Curtis Lazar. Size and skill can be a deadly combination in the NHL.
But Tomasek is the great unknown heading into Oilers training camp. I have him and defenseman Alec Regula as the two most intriguing players to watch when training camp begins September 18th.
Tomasek isn’t new to Canada. He played two seasons for the Belleville Bulls in the Ontario Hockey League when he was 17 and 18. He remembers a bit of playing against Connor McDavid (Erie Otters), Darnell Nurse (Soo Greyhounds), and Andrew Mangiapane (Barrie Colts) for those two seasons. Belleville missed the playoffs in his rookie season and lost in the first round in his second year. He scored 13 goals each season and produced 27 and 31 points playing mainly on the third line.
He returned to Czechia and has spent the past 10 seasons playing pro in Europe. He’s played in the top league in Czechia, Russia, Finland, and the past two seasons with Farjestads BK Karlstad in the Swedish Elite League. He led the league in goals in 2024 and led the league in points last season. He’s been an offensive player the past few years, but when he played for Czechia at the Men’s World Championship this past spring, he played on the fourth line. He played well in that role, and showing his versatility garnered interest from multiple NHL teams.
Tomasek told me he’s had offers before, but most were two-way deals, and he wasn’t sure he was ready to fully compete for a spot on an NHL lineup, so he remained in Europe and continued to work on his game. He’s excited for the challenge now and said he would have always regretted it if he didn’t come back to North America to play in the best league in the world.
Jason Gregor: Take me through the decision on why you chose Edmonton.
David Tomasek: I would say that it was maybe the personal contact with Stan Bowman and the team, we’ve been in touch for some time now, not just last year. They also came down to Sweden and wanted to introduce themselves, and we had a good chat about it. And I liked the idea about the team having a chance to skate with Leon and Connor, also is a great motivation to be around these best players, I would say, in the league.
Gregor: Sweden is a good skating league, and it’s much more of a defensive-minded league than the NHL, yet you were able to lead the league in scoring last year. You led the league in goals two years ago. You’ve just gotten better and better offensively. Explain your progression as a player over the past few seasons and why now is the right time to come to the NHL.
Tomasek: I think I was one of those guys who you would say developed a little bit later. I wasn’t as good in my early twenties or around the draft years. I had to understand many things, how to work with my size, with my skill, and develop the skill, develop some strength off the ice and kind of build confidence that I can have the skill to be one of the top guys in Europe. That was just built year by year, and I would say the last years were my best years in Europe and I feel I’m ready to compete in the best league in the world. I was offered contracts prior, but most were two-way deals, and I just didn’t feel I was ready to make it. I am now, though.
Gregor: Are you more comfortable at centre or on the wing?
Tomasek: The Last two years, I was a centre. On the National team, I was center and wing. So, I don’t care, just whatever fits them better. Whatever fit is better for the team, I’m going to try to do my best. And, I would say my style was a little bit better of a fit at centre in Europe. But obviously, we know here is a different system, and it’s a different league. It’s the best league. So, whatever fits best, I’m comfortable with.
Gregor: For fans who haven’t watched you play, can you describe your style of game and what they should expect to see?
Tomasek: It kind of depends on what role you’re going to get, but so far in Europe, I was able to be a point producer, having some skill and time on the power play. I see the ice well and I can make some plays. I also liked to use my size a little bit to create time and make plays.
But here, I think it really depends on how the next weeks are going to be and what role I’m going to get or I’m able to fight for. When I was put in a role where I had to defend, I could do it and when I was in the top two-line role, I could produce. My style depends on what role I’m given.
Gregor: Have you had any early discussions with coach Knoblauch as far as what he’s expecting from you?
Tomasek: No. We just chatted a little bit just to get an introduction. When I signed in the spring, it was right in the playoffs. So, there wasn’t much to talk about. But I’m going to see him in what, two weeks or something like that, a week and a half or so. We’ll see. We’ll go from there. I look forward to it.
Gregor: You’ve been in Edmonton for a week. Coming here, the change isn’t just on the ice, but also off of it. It is a big change. How are you and your wife fitting in with the new lifestyle?
Tomasek: We’ve been all over the place in Europe, and, obviously, this is a little bit different. You have to set up the phone numbers and get somewhere to stay. And we’re also waiting for our apartment, which will be ready soon. You have to get a bank set up so you can pay here, you know? So, it’s just those little things that are a little bit different than when you’re in the European Union. I would say that’s much easier. You can travel there more easily with one Visa and stuff like that. So doing all that makes it a little bit like the stress time, I would say.
But now I think we’re getting comfortable, and so far, the weather’s been pretty good. And, you know, we like the options. We like that there are a lot of places to go. We learned you have to get a car (laughs). We had to get a car, and we don’t mind it at all. We walked in the river valley. It was beautiful. Went to Little Brick and DogPatch. I think it’s a great city, and I heard it’s a great hockey town. These last two days, all the media around here, that’s more media than you have in Europe for games. So, just small changes and we just get used to everything.
I came early just to get more comfortable and get used to skating and used to the gear and the ice. There are so many new faces. There are so many people working for the organization, and that’s why I’m here early, so I can soak that in and prepare for camp and be comfortable. Today (Friday), I feel much more comfortable than I did on Monday. That will allow me to show my best when camp begins.
Gregor: Is there a little bit of feeling like a rookie again, even though you have lots of professional experience? Is it a mix of excitement and nervousness?
Tomasek: Yeah, for sure. In Europe, everyone knows what they’re getting from you, and you have a certain name already. I was there for ten years. But right now, you start from scratch, and you’re kind of new and a bit nervous sometimes, especially with skating with some of the superstars, let’s say, than you were watching on the highlights in Europe.
So, it’s just about getting used to that. They are, you know, they are just normal guys. They’re great guys. So just trying to get comfortable, keep the confidence a little bit, and just try to be yourself. And then whatever happens, happens.
Gregor: You will wear number 86. Any specific reason why you chose it?
Tomasek: You know what, I always wore number 96. That’s my birth year. And, for he last many years in Europe, I had it. But obviously, Jake wears it here, so it wasn’t an option. It’s my first year here, and I like number eight and having worn 96, I just thought they kind of connect, so I just went from 96 to 86.
Gregor: You’re 6-foot-2 and 210 pounds. Do you play a bit of a power game?
Tomasek: You know what, I didn’t have to in Europe because I was on the production lines and on the power play lines. But obviously, when I get emotional and I have, or when I have to be physical, then I try to use it.
But today’s game in Europe, in Sweden, when you have the big ice, you kind of lose the momentum when you hit, so you try to keep skating more. There’s a little bit less hitting. Obviously, there’s going to be more here, so I will just get used to that. And, you know, if I get put in a checking role or I am asked to use my body more, then I’ll try to do it. I mostly try to use it to protect the puck and stay in control, but if I need to hit, I’m going to hit.
Tomasek and I walked from the community arena to the Oilers rink, discussing his brief time in Edmonton. He’s enjoyed his time in Edmonton. He and his wife have already explored a bit of the river valley and are looking to see more. Fort Edmonton, the Mutart Conservatory are two places they plan on going and exploring more in the river valley. They will be moving into their apartment soon.
I’m interested to see where Knoblauch plays Tomasek. I’d lean towards him starting in the bottom six, but with Zach Hyman yet to shoot a puck this off-season, we could see Tomasek get a look in the top six during preseason. The Oilers could really use a “surprise” offensive player this season. Tomasek, Savoie, Howard, and Podkolzin are candidates. Andrew Mangiapane has scored more than 18 goals once, so if he managed to score 30 (he did it once before), that would be a big bonus.
I think most people enjoy an underdog story, and Tomasek would classify it as that. He feels confident and ready to contribute at the NHL level. His story is one I’ll be watching closely.
The Edmonton Oilers officially announced details for their 2025 Rookie Camp earlier today on social media, including a full 25-player roster and the schedule for a pair of games against the Calgary Flames. And thanks to our own Jason Gregor, we’ve got the list.
Camp Opens Wednesday, September 10th
The Oilers’ 2025-26 rookie camp kicks off on Wednesday, September 10th, with players reporting to Rogers Place for medical evaluations and fitness testing. After a long summer away from the rink, the task will be to see how many of these kids are getting close to showtime, and how many of them still have many miles to go before making the jump. This year’s group features a mix of prospects, recent draft picks, college free agents, and invited tryouts, with a total of 14 forwards, seven defencemen, and four goaltenders set to participate.
Among the most notable names on the roster are:
- Isaac Howard, acquired from Tampa Bay in July, who posted 32 points in 40 games at Michigan State on his way to winning the Hobey Baker Award.
- Matt Savoie, a former first-round pick acquired in the Ryan McLeod trade with Buffalo.
- Tommy Lafreniere and David Lewandowski, two of Edmonton’s selections at the 2025 NHL Draft.
- Quinn Hutson, a productive winger from Boston University that signed as a free agent.
- Beau Akey, Edmonton’s second-round pick in 2023 who continues to develop into a promising two-way defenceman.
On-Ice Sessions Begin Thursday
The group will hit the ice for the first time on Thursday, September 11th, with the sessions being led by the Bakersfield Condors coaching staff. That will single practice will act as the final tune-up before the rookies face off against the Calgary Flames prospects on Friday, September 12th at 7:00 PM here at Rogers Place.
The two teams will meet again on Sunday, September 14th at 4:00 PM in Calgary at the Saddledome, following a Saturday practice session. Edmonton’s rookie camp will conclude on Monday, September 15 with one final skate and the resulting cuts. What I’m most interested to watch is if players like Matthew Savoie and Ike Howard can dominate against their peers, or at least, look like they’re head and shoulders above the rest.
Seeing as the Oilers are expecting both players to contribute on the NHL roster this coming season, having them be the best players in rookie camp shouldn’t be too much to ask. If anything, we shouldn’t even have to say anything about it, and these two guys should just naturally lead the way. Of course, there’s also the possibility that this doesn’t happen, which would like raise plenty of questions as we approach the main training camp.
Ticket & Streaming Info
If you’re interested in checking the kids out as they kick off their NHL journey, Friday’s game is here at Rogers Place and is open to fans, with general admission tickets available now at EdmontonOilers.com/Tickets. According to the Oilers’ press release, the tickets are reasonably cheap, so you’ll want to get yours early in case it sells out.
- Advance tickets: $20
- Day-of-game tickets: $25
For the rest of us, both games will be streamed live on Oilers+, giving fans a first look at many of the organization’s top prospects and hopefuls. While there’s still plenty of time left to go before the big dance starts in October, having the rookies hit the ice this weekend is our first step to showtime, and I’m pretty damned excited to get going.
THE #NATIONVACATION TO VANCOUVER
It’s a Battle of the West, and you’re riding shotgun with the Nation. Edmonton is heading to Vancouver and we want you in the lineup. Join The Nation crew for a weekend full of hockey, high-fives, and good ol’ fashioned rivalry.
We’re flying out to Vancouver for a showdown on October 26th, but that’s not all we’re throwing an exclusive, invite-only Nation Watch Party on Saturday night (Oct 25) as Edmonton takes on Seattle. Expect food and drink specials, giveaways, and more Nation-style chaos than a third-period line brawl.
Massive shoutout to our MVP travel star, Chelsey Labelle at Expedia Cruises North East Edmonton, for making this trip happen.
We have a package for every fan! So travel your way at NationGear.ca
Oilersnation is reviving the Top 100 Edmonton Oilers of All Time list, a project originally created by the late Robin Brownlee in 2015. Rem Murray comes in at No. 81 on our updated 2025 list. He was ranked No. 61 on Brownlee’s original list.
If there’s one thing Edmonton Oilers fans love, it’s their role players, and Rem Murray played his to a tee. Counted on to slide up and down the lineup as needed, he was never one to put up massive offensive numbers, but after a long journey to the NHL, he found his home in Edmonton.
Notable
Murray arrived in Edmonton as a free agent, signing in September 1995 soon before the season after a four-year stint with Michigan State University. He spent the entirety of his first year with the AHL’s Cape Breton Oilers, scoring 31 goals and 90 points in 79 games, and while he popped offensively, his “bread and butter” was his defensive play and versatility.
His best offensive year came in 1998-99, scoring 21 goals and 39 points in 78 games, and his 2000-01 season scoring 15 goals and 36 points close behind.
The Story
Murray was drafted by the Kings in the sixth round of the 1992 draft but would never sign with them and his aforementioned college hockey stint saw him score 71 goals and 218 points in 165 games. He would spend five and a half seasons with the team from 1996-97 through March 2002, when the Oilers traded him to the New York Rangers alongside Tom Poti for a fourth-round pick and Mike York, who would help provide some offensive punch for the early 2000s Oilers.
Murray remained in New York until Dec. 2002, later traded to the Nashville Predators, and would return to Edmonton in 2005-06, playing nine regular season games and playing a depth role in the Oilers’ cup run that year.
What Brownlee said
The Last 10
- No. 91 — Sheldon Souray
- No. 90 — Pat Maroon
- No. 89 — Mark Napier
- No. 88 — Igor Ulanov
- No. 87 — Zdeno Ciger
- No. 86 — Devan Dubnyk
- No. 85 — Jaroslav Pouzar
- No. 84 — Jarret Stoll
- No. 83 — Bernie Nicholls
- No. 82 — Georges Laraque
Zach Laing is Oilersnation’s associate editor, senior columnist, and The Nation Network’s news director. He also makes up one-half of the DFO DFS Report. He can be followed on X at @zjlaing, or reached by email at [email protected].
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Thankfully, rookie games don’t count towards the Edmonton Oilers’ season.
On Friday evening, the Oilers’ rookies hosted the Calgary Flames rookies, falling 6-5 to their provincial rival. Let’s take a look at what went wrong in this game.
The game was delayed by half an hour due to the Flames taking their sweet time up Highway 2. When the puck was dropped, it was the Oilers who scored the first goal about four and a half minutes in, as Viljami Marjala snuck in behind the Flames’ defence, got a breakaway, and slid it between the Flames’ netminder’s pads.
Marjala opens the #BattleofAlbertapic.twitter.com/IiK1j1TPPI
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) September 13, 2025
Just over eight minutes in, the Flames tied the game at one, as Hunter Laing was able to find a quiet part of the ice, capitalizing on a puck that came net front, chipping it past Samuel Jonnason to tie the game.
After one period, the two teams were tied at one, but that changed in the second period. Seven minutes into the middle frame, Brady Stonehouse picked off a pass in the defensive zone, but turned it over to Jacob Battalgia, who threw it across the ice for an easy tap-in from Nathan Brisson.
About two minutes later, the Flames extended their lead to three, as the Flames worked the puck around on the power play, with Matvei Gridin finding Samuel Honzek backdoor, with the latter using his skates to deflect it into the back of the net.
Late in the second period, the Oilers had a neutral zone turnover, leading to a transition play. Eventually, Aydar Suniev got the puck in the slot, one-timing it past the Oilers’ netminder to give the Flames a 4-1 lead heading into the third period.
The Oilers got some hope six minutes into the third, as Matthew Savoie split the Flames’ defender off a neutral zone faceoff. Although he didn’t score on the breakaway, he was awarded a penalty shot, beating Owen Say by the post to cut the lead in half.
Savoie strikes on the penalty shotpic.twitter.com/8ssdowrihN
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) September 13, 2025
It didn’t take the Flames long to restore their three-goal lead, as the Oilers allowed an odd-man rush. Although they did well to defend it initially, the cross-ice pass returned to send, with Gridin firing off the Oilers’ netminder’s back at a tough angle to make it 5-2.
The Flames’ sixth and final goal came just over nine minutes into the third period, as their forecheck forced a turnover. After a cross-ice pass, Parker Bell sniped it over the Oilers’ netminder’s blocker to take a 6-2 lead.
That said, the Oilers were able to make it close. The Flames had a horrendous change late in the period, allowing Matt Capponi to pass it to Connor Clattenburg, who was all alone in front of the net to bring the Oilers within three.
Copponi to Clattenburgpic.twitter.com/0e74N1t1qP
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) September 13, 2025
It didn’t take long to make it an interesting game, as they scored just a few seconds later off another faceoff, with Savoie using his speed to break in and cause an odd-man rush, slipping it under the Flames’ netminder’s pads to bring the Oilers within two.
Savoie's second of the nightpic.twitter.com/1b9QikPFUw
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) September 13, 2025
Sadly, the Oilers weren’t able to find a goal until there were just a few seconds left in the game, as Quinn Hutson sniped it past the Flames’ netminder to give the game a final score of 6-5.
Takeaways…
Samuel Jonsson got the start for the Oilers in this game, and it wasn’t a particularly great game for the 21-year-old Swede. He allowed four goals on an unknown number of shots, as the shot total was not tracked. The 2022 fifth-round pick could’ve done a bit better on the first and fourth goals.
It’s been a long time since the Oilers had a player like Connor Clattenburg in their system, much less on their roster. The fifth-round pick in 2024 had two fights, two minor penalties, and a goal. Having a player like this in the bottom six is exactly what the Oilers need, so let’s hope the Ottawa native develops well in the American Hockey League in 2025-26.
Matthew Savoie had a good game, picking up two goals, including one on a penalty shot. He and his linemates were rather quiet in the first two periods of the game, but Savoie showed off his great speed in the third period, using it to generate both goals. The Oilers’ top prospect played right wing in this game, but took some draws on his strong side and did well.
Ike Howard was not as noticeable as Savoie. Of the two, Savoie appears to be more NHL-ready, but there’s still a ton of time for Howard to make an impact. The Oilers’ best player of the game was Viljami Marjala, who was signed out of Finland this off-season. He scored the opening goal of the game and picked up another assist. Moreover, Savoie started to find more success when Marjala was promoted to the first line, so that’s something to watch moving forward.
It was a feisty Battle of Alberta. As noted earlier, Connor Clattenburg fought twice, arguably winning both fights (one against Axel Hurtig and one against Mace’o Phillips), while Parker Von Richter dropped the mitts with Kadon McCann.
The good news is that the Oilers will get a chance at revenge on Sunday, as the two teams face off in Calgary at 4:00 PM MT.
Ryley Delaney is a Nation Network writer for Oilersnation, FlamesNation, and Blue Jays Nation. Follow her on Twitter @Ryley__Delaney.
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With the Edmonton Oilers’ rookie camp underway and the full training camp starting next week, it’s hard not to think about the potential roster construction and line combinations for the upcoming regular season.
There’s some good young talent that appears to be ready to make the jump to the national league. And there are also a lot of more established, professional-level players who are competing for critical roster spots. With all the players being added, it’s become pretty obvious that some of the regular players from last season are either going to see their minutes be reduced or potentially be replaced completely, especially those further down the lineup.
It’s a harsh reality in the professional ranks, especially for those who are on the decline in their careers and have seen their numbers take a hit in recent seasons. Teams need to find any edge, even the slightest improvements. This is especially true if you’re a club pushing for a Stanley Cup Championship.
One player in particular who is at risk of being replaced this season is 35-year-old forward Adam Henrique. Drafted in the third round in 2008, Henrique has had a solid career, putting up over 500 points in 15 NHL seasons, and is closing in on the 1,000-game mark.
But over the last few seasons, Henrique has…
- seen his point production decline;
- been negatively impacting his team’s ability to control shots and scoring chances at even-strength; and
- hasn’t had a positive impact on the special teams, specifically the penalty kill.
Combine these current issues with the fact that he’s in the last season of his contract that pays him $3 million (with a no movement clause courtesy of Ken Holland) and the fact that contending teams need to be more creative to enhance their rosters due to the latest CBA changes — it’s not looking great for Henrique
Productivity at even-strength (five-on-five)
Last regular season, Henrique put up nine goals and eight assists in 81 games and finished 10th among Oiler forwards with seventeen points at even-strength. This converts into a points per hour rate of only 1.07, which ranked 14th among Oiler forwards, and was in replacement-level territory. This rate was the lowest in Henrique’s career, and well below the 1.62 rate that he’d posted over the course of his career heading into last season.
Here’s how Henrique has produced since entering the league as a full-time player in 2011 as a 22-year-old. This is broken down by season and the team he played for, and also includes his age that season. He was fairly consistent in recent seasons, putting up second or third-line level production in Anaheim and Edmonton.
It’s worth noting that while Henrique did post a rate of 1.93 points per hour in the 2023/24 season with Edmonton, he was riding a 108 PDO, indicating that a lot of his success was luck-driven. His on-ice shooting percentage and on-ice save percentage were well above normal levels, and it was bound to eventually crash back down to earth. This past 2024/25 season in Edmonton, his PDO was 99.8, which is right around league-average levels.
Negative impact on the team’s even-strength performance
Now, an argument could be made that Henrique didn’t have the best linemates last season, or that he wasn’t put into offensive situations. But the other harsh reality is that when Henrique was on the ice, and often against the other team’s lesser competition, the Oilers would typically get outshot and outchanced. Whoever he was on a line with or whoever was on the blueline with him would typically see their on-ice numbers crater when Henrique was deployed – indicating that it was likely a Henrique-issue rather than a team-wide issue.
In the last two seasons with Edmonton, Henrique’s on-ice numbers were significantly worse relative to the team’s levels, and that’s across all shot types.
For instance, with Henrique on the bench, the Oilers posted an Expected Goals For percentage of 57 percent. But when Henrique was deployed, that number dropped to 47 percent. That transferred into the post-season as well as Henrique’s on-ice expected goal-share was at 46 percent, while the team posted a share of 52 percent. Among all the forwards who played for Edmonton the last two seasons, Henrique’s shot share numbers were consistently at the bottom of the list.
Not so special on special teams
Henrique did have the coach’s trust on the penalty kill, which should work in his favor when he competes for a roster spot this upcoming season. In the last two seasons with Edmonton, Henrique played the fourth-most minutes among forwards on the penalty kill and the fourth-highest rate of minutes per game. His experience will definitely be an asset that the team will rely on.
What the coaching staff should hopefully be aware of is that the Oilers often saw the rate of shots and chances against increase whenever he was on the ice. Among the twelve forwards who played at least 20 minutes on the penalty kill the last two seasons, Henrique’s on-ice rate of shots and shot attempts against were the third highest. With Henrique on the ice, the Oilers saw their rate of unblocked shot attempts (i.e., Fenwick) increase by 12 per hour, an 18 percent increase relative to the team levels. If the Oilers are looking for improvement on the penalty kill, options are coming into training camp that should get a look.
Final Thoughts
The goal is a championship, and every move must be geared towards that. There’s going to be a lot of options for management and the coaching staff to build an optimal roster, with a good array of skillsets and experience to pick from. And it’s no secret that the Oilers badly need an influx of youth, especially if they want to sustain their success and compete for cups.
There’s a chance Henrique has a great camp and solidifies a role in the middle six order up front and sees his numbers bounce back to previous seasons. But knowing what we know about aging curves among NHL players, and the fact that he’s been declining for a couple of seasons now — both in terms of point production and on-ice performance — it’s hard to make that bet. Plus, teams need to find new, creative ways to allocate their dollars more efficiently heading into the playoffs, making Henrique’s contract enticing to move.
The hope is that management is actively looking for and identifying gaps in their roster and addressing their issues to ensure that they keep pace with the other contenders in the league. And hopefully we see some realistic options emerge in camp and at the start of the season. It’s going to be critical.
Data: Natural Stat Trick
If you were wandering downtown Edmonton or near Commonwealth Stadium yesterday, you’d swear you’d been teleported to Nashville, Tennessee.
The city was buzzing not just for the Oilers and Flames rookie game, but also for country star Morgan Wallen, who has back-to-back shows in Edmonton this weekend.
Down by the Ice District, it was a combination of Oilers jerseys and country-inspired outfits everywhere.
Before the show, there was buzz that Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl might walk out with Wallen. The country star has made it a theme to bring out a notable local at each stop.
And who is bigger in Edmonton than Connor McDavid, especially with the noise around his contract extension?
Wallen didn’t hit the stage until 9:20 PM, and as he walked out to the Commonwealth crowd, McDavid was beside him with a big smile, happy to be part of the spectacle.
In 2023, McDavid gave a brief interview to NHL.com’s Anna Kulesa, saying his summer soundtrack includes Morgan Wallen.
Edmonton loves Morgan Wallen, and Connor McDavid loves Morgan Wallen. It was a match made in heaven.
Members of Wallen’s band wore Edmonton Elks jerseys with custom nameplates. Later in the show, Wallen put on an Oilers jersey with Wayne Gretzky’s name on the back.
Social media reacted as you’d expect: fans urging McDavid to sign, rivals insisting he’s gone, and plenty of contract talk overshadowing the fun of the moment.
There were also the “who-birds,” folks claiming they don’t know Wallen and posting, “Who?”
The artist has more than 36 million monthly listeners on Spotify, so it’s safe to say he’s one of the biggest acts in his genre and in the world right now.
Now the attention turns to Saturday night, when Wallen performs one more show in Edmonton. Fans are hoping to see Oilers star Leon Draisaitl join him for the walkout.
Like Friday, the Edmonton Oilers lost another high-scoring rookie game against the Calgary Flames in the final NextGen showcase game.
This time, the Oilers fell by a final score of 5-4, as they hung around in the game, but were unable to find the game-tying goal late in the third period. Let’s take a look at what happened in this one.
For the second consecutive game, it was the Oilers that opened the scoring. Just over two minutes into the game, David Lewandowski battled along the boards and did a good job of retrieving the puck, passing out front to a wide-open Tommy Lafrenière, who one-timed it into the back of the net.
Lafreniere one-timer opens the game
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) September 14, 2025
The Flames tied it up with just under four-and-a-half minutes left in the first period. Nathaniel Day saved the initial shot, but the Flames were able to bang in the rebound to tie up the game heading into the first intermission.
Right there to clean it uppic.twitter.com/HZemGlhlO0
— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) September 14, 2025
With just over six minutes left in the second period, the Flames took the lead. A poor pinch allowed a two-on-one, and although Day made the initial save, the rebound was cleaned up by Nathan Brisson for the 2-1 lead.
The Flames added to their lead with 3:39 left in the second period, as another defensive breakdown allowed Matvei Gridin the open ice, with the Russian winger one-timing it past Day for a 3-1 lead.
It took all the way until the end of the second period for the Oilers to score their second goal of the game, a Lafrenière scored his second of the game on another one-timer. This time, it took a fortunate bounce off a Flame and into the back of the net.
Three minutes into the third period, the Flames regained their two-goal lead, as broken zone entry saw the puck find its way to Colton Alain, who picked his spot to give the Flames a 4-2 lead.
Shortly after the Flames made it 4-2, the Oilers got that goal back thanks to Josh Samanski. There was a collision near the Flames’ blue line, combined with a poor Flames’ change that led to a two-on-one. Quinn Huston passed it over to Samanski, who made no mistake in scoring his first of the game.
Samanski gets a goal & +70 aura pointspic.twitter.com/cGQ0eqwoPB
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) September 15, 2025
Once again, the Flames were able to restore their two-goal lead, this time on a power play just over seven minutes into the final frame. Parker Bell’s shot was deflected in by Hunter Laing, who was all alone beside Day, giving the Flames a 5-3 lead.
After sustained zone time midway through the third period, the Oilers cut the lead to one as Parker Von Richter’s point shot was that of a seeing-eye variety, finding a hole to beat Arsenii Sergeev.
Von Richter through trafficpic.twitter.com/DpkCwfkVnh
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) September 15, 2025
Takeaways…
Between the pipes for the Oilers was Nathaniel Day, who allowed five goals on an unknown number of shots. The 20-year-old netminder had a solid first period, making three big stops, including this breakaway save.
Another big save by Nathaniel Day, this time robbing Matvei Gridin on a breakaway. pic.twitter.com/aXjkQzhXbV
— Ryley Delaney(@Ryley__Delaney) September 14, 2025
The Oilers’ best player of the game was 2025 third-rounder Tommy Lafrenière, as the right-winger potted two goals. His linemate, 2025 fourth-rounder David Lewandowski, was great along the boards to set up Lafrenière’s first goal.
Matthew Savoie had another solid game. While he didn’t score two goals like he did on Friday, his playmaking and solid skating were on full display throughout the game. This play, midway through the third period, was his best of the game and should’ve resulted in a goal.
Easily Matthew Savoie's best play of the game so far. pic.twitter.com/c9eIIyFbwR
— Ryley Delaney
Ike Howard had another quiet game. The only time he was noticeable was when the Oilers had a man-advantage, but he did come close to setting up the game-tying goal late in the game.
Connor Clattenburg battled with Flames’ defenceman Mace’o Phillips throughout the game, laying down a few big hits throughout the game. He was quieter than in Friday’s game, but he still made an impact.
Connor Clattenburg being physical… again. pic.twitter.com/h9bV5uyYQJ
— Ryley Delaney
The Oilers open the pre-season next Sunday, as they play a split-squad game against the Flames, one in Edmonton and one in Calgary.
Ryley Delaney is a Nation Network writer for Oilersnation, FlamesNation, and Blue Jays Nation. Follow her on Twitter @Ryley__Delaney.
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The Edmonton Oilers Rookie Team had a home-and-home set against the Calgary Flames rookies. The Oilers rookies dropped both games, 6-5 on Friday and 5-4 on Sunday. The gap between the top of Edmonton’s lineup and the depth was clear, especially on a blue line made up of one Oilers draft pick, one college signing, and four camp invites. There were a lot of “fine” players this weekend, but these five stood out most to me.
Viljami Marjala – Centre
Viljami Marjala, a 2021 fifth-round pick of the Sabres who signed a two-year ELC with the Oilers after not being qualified, was one of the more impressive players. Every time he was on the ice, the puck seemed to find him because of the routes he takes. On breakouts, he comes low, builds speed under the play, and becomes an option for his winger or supports the battle. Watching the playmaker this weekend made it easy to see how he put up 44 assists in 54 games. Marjala is pass-heavy, but he makes it work with deception and poise under pressure. He also opened Friday’s scoring with a beautiful breakaway five-hole. It will be interesting to see how the former Liiga forward looks in main camp and the preseason.
Marjala opens the #BattleofAlberta
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) September 13, 2025
Matt Savoie – Winger
Another former Sabres pick, Matt Savoie, showed out. The St. Albert product was the best player of the weekend for me. His explosiveness was on display, from multiple breakaways (including a penalty-shot goal) to winning foot races. Expectations were high, and he met them. The only critique is that he needs to shoot more and be a threat himself. On Sunday, he took a cross-checking penalty that, while not ideal, showed his natural competitiveness. I hope he gets a long look on Leon Draisaitl’s wing in camp and preseason.
Quinn Hutson – Winger
Quinn Hutson signed after an excellent career at Boston University that ended with 50 points in 38 games. At 23 years old, he’s an older prospect and needed to show well, and he did. Like Marjala and Savoie, Hutson is a skilled, pass-first winger, but he is more willing to shoot. His best trait this weekend was creating his own lanes to thread pucks through. He also used drag shots, fakes, and deception to get pucks on net. I do wonder about his NHL upside, given an average skating base and his age, but it was a strong weekend.
Beau Akey – Defenceman
The 2023 second-rounder had an OK 2024-25 after shoulder surgery, with fewer points but strong defending for Barrie. This weekend, he was the only drafted defenceman on Edmonton’s roster and logged a lot of minutes in all situations, including PP2 and the PK. His skating pops immediately, and he uses it well: tight gaps, beating the first forechecker, and moving along the blue line. If he refines his hands and puck skills, he can be a real transition threat because he consistently beats F1. His first pro season will be interesting; he is still slight and relies on upper-body defending. He will need to leverage his body better along the wall.
David Lewandowski – Winger
The newest pick on this list, David Lewandowski, showed encouraging signs. As noted in his profile, the German-born winger excels at playmaking under pressure. He rarely misses on a pass and creates a lot. He moved up the lineup on Sunday and played on the third line rather than the fourth. I am expecting a strong year from him in Saskatoon.
Honourable mention to Connor Clattenburg, who played his usual pest-like game. He finished with a goal, a couple of fights, plenty of hits, and stirred up multiple scrums.
Unfortunately, it is worth noting that the newly acquired Ike Howard had a disappointing weekend. The former Spartan skated with Savoie, and Savoie stood out far more. Howard fumbled pucks under pressure and often skated himself into dead ends. It looked like he tried to do too much. One rough weekend does not matter in the big picture, but I hoped for more from Howard in a rookie tournament.
Next up… training camp!
