Edmonton Oilers Expected to Call Up Standout Prospect After Connor McDavid Injury

PUBLICATION

Liam McCormick
October 29, 2024 (1:06 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

The Edmonton Oilers are facing the worst case scenario for the team, as superstar Connor McDavid has been ruled out with injury.

McDavid is currently travelling back to Edmonton to undergo medical tests, which will provide the exact timeline for his recovery. He'll miss at least two games and likely more, so the Oilers will soon be calling up a depth player.

Most Oilers analysts seem to believe the first player to be called up will be Noah Philp, a 26 year old centerman coming out of a one-year retirement. Philp had an incredible training camp with the Oilers, impressing with his two-way game and work ethic. Philp arguably should've made the team out of training camp, but Edmonton wanted to get him more ice time in professional games after his retirement. In 6 AHL games this season Philp has looked great, and deserves the call up. Analysts Jim Matheson named Philp as the most likely call up.

Other than Philp, there's some quality candidates the Oilers could consider to bring them a different look. Edmonton's top prospect Matthew Savoie didn't have a fantastic training camp, but has the most offensive talent to offset the loss of McDavid. James Hamblin is primarily a winger, but has the most NHL experience of all three options.

If the decision for the first callup is based on merit alone, Noah Philp should be on his way to join the Oilers. If Edmonton decides they need more depth offence or a more experienced option, they'll either go with Savoie or Hamblin. Perhaps the length of time McDavid will miss influenced the decision as well.

The Oilers are back in action on October 31st against the Predators in Nashville, then wrap up their road trip against the Calgary Flames. If McDavid miraculously missed a severe injury, he could join the team again then.