Philip Broberg Confirms Major Problem with Oilers Organization in New Interview

Oilers President Jeff Jackson recently revealed that improper player development created a lack of trust from Broberg that ruined the relationship.

Speaking with the Hockey News ahead of playing the Oilers, Broberg was asked if he regrets leaving Edmonton, and he stressed he wanted more ice time.

It's interesting to hear that Broberg doesn't outwardly deny any regret for leaving the team, and mostly just lamented his ice time. Obviously, he's happy now in St. Louis with that opportunity he deserves.

Broberg described his early season success to the freedom of playing his style of hockey in St. Louis. In 15 games, he has an impressive 12 points.

However, had the Oilers given him the opportunity he had in last year's playoffs through the season, Broberg may be still thriving in Edmonton. His playstyle fits exactly what works with the Oilers elite forwards, and Coach Paul Coffey.

The more happy go lucky personality in Dylan Holloway expressed more tough feelings about leaving the Oilers, but still said he was happy in St. Louis too.

Just earlier this week, Jeff Jackson touched upon these exact problems that led to the loss of Philip Broberg.

The Oilers had no player development strategy with Broberg, no communication, and left him buried behind veterans when he was an NHL talent. Broberg was clearly frustrated, requested a trade, and then made his move out of Edmonton when he could.

What's reassuring is that Jackson and Bowman are recognizing these past mistakes in player development, and committing to better efforts in that department. It may sting the Oilers to lose a player of Broberg's caliber so soon, so they need to prevent it from happening again with other top prospects.