Three notable Oilers to watch this upcoming season
By Admin User on November 9, 2021
The Edmonton Oilers opened up their new season on October 13 against the Vancouver Canucks. Both fans and players are looking for a solid season after an early exit from the playoffs last year. Three notable players for fans to keep their eyes on this season are:
Second-line left wing forward Zach Hyman
Hyman is one of the many free agents the Oilers got this summer. After six years with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Hyman will be dawning the orange and blue. The six-foot-one forward racked up 33 points in only 43 games played last season. Not only does he play with a strong work ethic, but he also has speed and strength in his game, which is what McDavid needs in a winger. All of these factors make Hyman one of the top players to watch this season.
First-line right wing forward Jesse Puljujarvi
Moving over to the right-wing position, we have Jesse Puljujarvi. The Oilers selected the 23-year-old fourth overall in the 2016 draft. Making the roster in his rookie season got fans’ interest, which grew his name around Edmonton. Puljujarvi spent the next three years with the team and with his game declining, he decided to go back to Finland for the 2019-2020 season. After many discussions between Puljujarvi and management, he returned to the team in the shortened 2020-2021 season. He had a bounce-back season by totalling 25 points in 55 games played. While he is six-foot-four, he plays a fast game and isn’t afraid to use his body or screen the goalie, making him a valuable player to the team and a player to keep an eye on.
Third-line left defense Ducan Keith
The third notable player to watch is Ducan Keith. Keith was another free agent the Oilers got during the summer. The 38-year-old may be one of the oldest players on the team. He also brings playoff experience, winning three Stanley Cups in his 16-year long career with his former team, the Chicago Blackhawks. While in Chicago, Keith played in 1,192 games, with 625 points. Keith will bring his post-season knowledge and experience to help excel the young defensive core the Edmonton Oilers have. All of these statistics make him a player to keep an eye on.
Each of these three players looks to bring something different to the team, whether it’s speed, experience, or a strong work ethic. At the same time, Connor McDavid and Leon Draisital will remain the top duo on the team. Fans will need to keep their eyes on these three players.