The battle begins for the final forward spot in Edmonton.
With training camp on the horizon and all NHL teams mobilizing their players and coaching staff to assess the organization's prospects, existing players' readiness for action, and to begin teaching the rookies how to play their style, it appears that a battle will be brewing within the Edmonton Oilers.
Several players will be ready to compete for the final forward spot, which is the 12th forward position. Kurt Leavins of the Edmonton Journal reveals that Sam Gagner and Brandon Sutter will attend camp for tryouts, and internal players such as James Hamblin and Rafael Lavoie are also candidates for the job.
Leavins also mentioned that Lavoie decided to accept his qualifying offer rather than signing a deal with a two-way contract, which means it will be more challenging to fit within their financial constraints.
Among all the players vying for the 12th spot, it seems that Gagner will have the edge. The Oilers will also keep their eyes open for the waiver wire, as more teams are expected to release players who could be available to help improve their situation in the short term.
The Oilers are currently in a "win now" mode, and they are trying to find every advantage they can to give their team a chance to go the distance and attempt to hoist their 6th Stanley Cup.
| POLL | ||
Who will be the player to make the team for the 12th forward? | ||
| Sam Gagner | 92 | 48.7 % |
| Brandon Sutter | 64 | 33.9 % |
| James Hamblin | 6 | 3.2 % |
| Rafael Lavoie | 27 | 14.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
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