Insider says Oilers president will make significant changes on the ice in AHL
Jeff Jackson is brining in a new era of Oilers management and a fresh perspective on the whole organization, which will reportedly bring some major changes to the AHL level.
In recent years, the Oilers farm team in the Bakersfield Condors has been incredibly successful, but has been known to play AHL veterans over young players. According to Jason Gregor, there will be a new directive in the AHL this year to develop younger players, something that likely came from Jackson.
My understanding is there's gonna be a little bit of a change here. I think you're going to see, not gifted ice time, but I think they'll have longer rope. As far as, you know what, we need our young guys to play a little more.
-Jason Gregor
-Jason Gregor
Jeff Jackson has made the Oilers better this season with the signings of Jeff Skinner and Victor Arvidsson, but also made it a priority to re-stock the cupboards with prospects like Matthew Savoie and Sam O'Reilly.
The Oilers now have a full cast of decent prospects playing in the AHL, and they need to be given an opportunity to develop there instead of prioritizing ice time for someone like Seth Griffith, Greg McKegg, and Adam Erne. Next season, it will be players like Xavier Bourgault, James Hamblin, Raphael Lavoie, and definitely Matthew Savoie getting extra attention. A change in philosophy like this is like a directive from Jackson himself, to better develop the team's assets.
Jeff Jackson has quickly proven to be an incredible manager for the Oilers, making these moves with an eye to the present and future success of the team. With him at the helm, Oilers fans can be confident their team will redeem themselves for a heartbreaking loss in Game 7, and bring the Cup back to Edmonton.
Source: Jason Gregor
Change coming to AHL philosophy for Oilers
| POLL | ||
Do you think the Oilers need to prioritize ice time for prospects more in the AHL? | ||
| Yes, this change is much needed | 101 | 72.7 % |
| No, earn your ice time | 33 | 23.7 % |
| See Results | 5 | 3.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
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