Oilers top 10 prospect returns to hockey after previously quitting

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Liam McCormick
July 12, 2024 (9:59 PM)

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Earlier this week in the frenzy of free agent news, the Oilers announced some great news that went under the radar. The Oilers have re-signed prospect Noah Philp after he did not play last season.

The 25 year old Albertan born forward has shown great promise in his College career and one season in the AHL, but then surprisingly decided to step away from hockey for the entirety of last season. Even with this layoff from hockey, Oilers insider Bob Stauffer has Philp pegged as the sixth best prospect on the team. In 70 games with the Condors in 2023-24, Philp scored a decent 19 goals and 37 points.

In June of last year, Philp very briefly described his reasoning for stepping away from hockey. The reasons sounded entirely personal and involving off-ice life events, and it's totally fine for Philp to have his privacy with it.

I have nothing but respect for everyone within both organizations and I'll always be grateful for the opportunity I received.
I'm at a time in my life where I want to focus on things outside the realm of hockey. I'm doing well and wish all the best to the players, coaches and staff in Bakersfield and in Edmonton.
-Noah Philp

It's exciting to see Philp able to return to hockey, and make the decision to return to the Edmonton Oilers as well. Plenty of insiders are relatively high on the prospect for an undrafted college free agent, which could be a testament to the talent he has. Who knows, he could be a surprise for the Oilers organization this season or in the future.