Oilers Jambalaya - Edmonton Oilers, OKC Barons & Stockton Thunder

Life after Hemsky

noreply@blogger.com (Jay Friesen) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 20:17:00 +0000

Life after Hemsky is becoming a real possibility for the Oilers. The trade deadline is fast approaching and Tambillini knows he needs to do something with the star winger. The question is what is the right decision for the Oilers long term future? To determine the answer to this question we must look at the past, present, and future.
In the past Hemsky has always been the bright spot to the Oilers lineup. Hemsky has shown he can be a top playmaker in the league.When healthy he has proven he is a point per game player in the NHL (or very close to it). But there lies the issue. The past few seasons the Oilers have not seen a healthy Hemsky. Just 22 games 2 seasons ago and 47 games last season. This season hemsky has also had shoulder problems and admitted he was not 100 percent until just after Christmas. Since then I see Hemsky again as the high skill player he has been throughout his career. The points may not show it but his play does.
Everyone in Edmonton knows Hemsky has not been a happy Oiler this season. Being dropped down to 2nd and sometimes 3rd line duties has hit his ego and effected his play. It wasn’t until the Oilers put Hemsky back into important roles that he started to shine once again. Hemsky has also shown his displeasure with Edmonton media, once even walking away from an interview basically telling the media to (insert word here) off.
Could Hemsky once again become happy as an Oiler? I have to say yes. Playing a bigger role and seing the coaching staff have faith in him again he has already looked much happier on and off the ice. In order to sign another contract with the oilers though Hemsky is going to need to see a commitment from the team. He will want to know the team is behind him and will continue to put him in a role where he can help the team succeed as well as have success himself.
Having said all that I do still believe the Oilers will move Hemsky at or before the deadline. In my opinion teams in play would be LA, Det, Pitts, and Nash. I could see the Oilers offering up Hemsky and a pick or prospect to Nashville for Suter. Some will say im crazy, that Nashville would never do that but lets remember that both players are UFA at seasons end and both players are what the other team in the deal needs.
My final thoughts regarding Hemsky is the skill is there, the will on the otherhand has yet to be determined. The “will” can only be determined after a trade or a commitment from the Oilers to his long term future.

Oilers 2012 NHL MOck Draft Rankings Jan 26/12

noreply@blogger.com (revingev) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:38:00 +0000

There are going to be some real happy teams in the 1st round of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, as this group of talent runs quite deep the top 20 players could swing a lot of different directions. For the Edmonton Oilers, I really only have a few players I believe can make a impact on this team within 2 seasons. They are in no particular Order...Nail Yakupov, Mikhail Grigorenko, Alex Galchenyuk, Ryan Murray, Griffin Reinhart and Matthew Dumba. There are questions mark with each player and all different. But just as with these players , there is always a question on a prospect. These are the players I believe the Oilers would be most interested in as well.

The players in the top 15 I have listed I would stay away from would include, Filip Forsberg, Nick Ebert, and Martin Frk.

It will be a interesting to see where the Oilers place as time continues but this fan would much rather have a high end pick then a spot two places higher in the standings and a player who won't have half the potential. On the other hand, I don't want to lose every game either. Dilema's!

Here is the 2012 top 15 NHL Mock Rankings as of Jan 26/12

1. Nail Yakupov

2. Mikhail Grigorenko

3.Ryan Murray

4.Morgan Rielly

5.Matthew Dumba

6.Alex Galchenyuk

7.Derrick Pouliot

8.Filip Forsberg

9.Griffin Reinhart

10.Cody Ceci

11.Zemgus Girgensons

12.Nick Ebert

13.Brendan Gaunce

14.Martin Frk

15.Olli Maatta

1st Round Traded Draft Picks

Washington receives Colorado's 2012 1st round pick and a 2012 or 2013 2nd round pick (Capitals choice) for Semyon Varlamov.

For Oiler ,Baron and Thunder prospect news and the 2012 & 2013 NHL draft watch www.twitter.com/revingev

Oilers VS Canucks "Rebuilding in Riot City"

noreply@blogger.com (revingev) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 01:23:00 +0000

My apologies for such a late blog on a game night. If your reading this now before the game, your probably thinking "Man, am I glad there is something to read before the game that will be more interesting then the game itself". If your reading this after the game, your thinking "Man, do I wish I had read this during the game!".

Without question this team is in full rebuild, but is it a rebuild we can trust in?

Ok, the game may be a snorefest, but on the other hand, what if these guys kick it up a gear and start challenging for a playoff spot? Your right, they might just do that. Just as soon as a Politician admits he lied or mislead you in his election campaign promises. Yeah, this is not easy to watch game after game, but at least they showed some spunk last night. All signs point to a disappointing game and results for Oiler fans tonight. But what if something exciting happens? What if they can actually beat the Knuckleheads? What if, just maybe, just maybe, they come out with a big upset tonight? Exactly....that's why we are all still watching, reading and talking.

The Canucks are a good team and no Oiler fan is dumb enough to think they are not. (we still will say they suck, they choke and etc...) but they are a well built team. Tonight, the story line is much more then the game itself. It's about many moving parts. Whitney is back in the lineup tonight testing out the bad ankle. Poor guy, this must really suck and especially for a top end talent like him to have this keep reoccurring. It's about Tamby and Renney. Will Tamby get a contract extension and not Renney? Should he get a extension? Is their valid excuses for the fact this team is not playing meaningful games? Who's fault is it really? Like I said, there are stories within the stories. To me, instead of "As the World turns" we have "As the Oilers Lose".

Do we have the right tools in place for this rebuild?

Ever try to work on your car or truck only to have the wrong tools? Sucks , doesn't it? Is that what Renney is saying to Tamby? Or is Tamby looking at the tools and saying, "Only two more parts Tom. This draft , you will have the last big tool you will need". Or, are we tools, for believing this rebuild will even work to begin with? Do you have faith they actually know how to do a rebuild? Do they have experience doing this?

This team is slowly putting together a collection of stars that will hopefully rival any team in the current NHL. But at what expense?

This rebuild may very well work, and you are looking at the beginning of something very special indeed. The bigger question for me is...How can we tangibly see this rebuild is working? There is no proof, we are just told it is a rebuild and they are building something great. There does need to be some kind of accountability IMO for this rebuild to the fans. The ones who support this team are the ones who deserve to be shown some support. How can that be done? Don't treat the fans like infants who don't know anything. Treat them like adults who are well educated and tell them straight up what the process is going to look like. I understand, there are some things you can not say as management. But they need to find a way to appease the fans with some vision and hope that , this is going to work. Give the fans a bone, and they will chew on it for weeks....and if your lucky, maybe years!

Go Oilers!

For Oiler ,Baron and Thunder prospect news and the 2012/13 NHL draft watch www.twitter.com/revingev

Oilers VS Sharks "Two Headed Monster"

noreply@blogger.com (revingev) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:32:00 +0000

Which team is going to show it's face tonight is anybodies guess. Tom Renney says the players need to be responsible to show up. The fans say it's the coaches job to motivate, the truth is, it is a combination of both. Renney is responsible for icing the right line combinations that have chemistry. It's his job as well to send the right players out at the right time.

I wonder sometimes as a fan, when will we really be able to see the real identity of this team? What's it really supposed to look like or act like? This Oilers team has been pieced together by the GM to resemble what? That's a question that only our Management team can answer.

Currently all fans now see is small glimpses of what looks to be a very bright future. It's like seeing the babies head pop out, only to be completely disfigured in the rest of the body. I know a gruesome thought, but is it any more gruesome then the display we see as Oiler fans at least every second or third game? Lately far more often then not. I know this team is hurting having Whitney and Gilbert out of the lineup. I know Ryan Nugent-Hopkins is badly missed on the PP. I also know both Hall and Eberle are currently banged up some and are most likely not playing at high end proficiency.

The good news? Call it a hunch, but the recent shuffle of players in OKC with the Barons could very possibly be a tell tale. The management has to be looking long term for the development of this organization. The coach and the GM know they have no contract into next season. Renney has got results from the young developing players to date. With this season now a distant cry from the playoffs, the Oilers are preparing for next year. I know it's pretty sad even saying that but it is the truth and we need to look at this objectively if we don't want to go insanely mad.

I am guessing we will see at least two veterans being moved out at the deadline who are not fitting the big picture and or enabling the development of the young players of the future. I also think we can see the possibility of more playing time for the younger players. It happened last year as well. They want to see what they have in a Paajarvi, Petry, Hartikanen, Chorney and the likes.

This is their chance to shine. I fully expect the PP to show the rising crop of young stars more and the PK reserved more for the veterans as they press forward with this season. Truly right now we have a collage of players being assembled and they are trying to see where they fit best into the puzzle. Question is, "Can Renney help accomplish that?" For Renney's sake and for the sanity of Oiler fans, I hope so!

Enjoy tonight's game on TSN at 7:30pm vs the Sharks of San Jose. Let's hope instead of San Jose taking a bite out of the Oil, it will be the Oilers downing the Sharks. Here is hoping the "Hungry head of the Monster shows up"

For Oiler ,Baron and Thunder prospect news and the 2012/13 NHL draft watch www.twitter.com/revingev

"Destined for?"

noreply@blogger.com (revingev) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 15:16:00 +0000

Everyone wants to see their favourite team hoisting the Stanley Cup, but few get to see or experience it in their lifetime. This city was truly spoilt in the 80's with the team that was assembled by Glen Sather. Make no mistake about it, it was not a magic formula that made that team so good. With a salary cap era, no team can afford to have the talent the Oilers once held together, but don't make the mistake of thinking you can't keep a really good team together for 10 plus years.

The Red Wings and Penquins are two teams that despite injuries, change in player management and local economic struggles, seem to stay among the elite of the league regardless. Why you ask? I believe it has more to do with management. Which brings us to the question. Is Edmonton's problems in management, coaching or the players? Well let's look at this...

Players: Some are improving and growing while others seem to be falling off the face of the earth.

Management: Have produced a top end farm system in OKC with the Barons but looking to be a bottom 3 team in the NHL for the 3rd straight year.

Coaching: The players appear to love this current coaching staff and we hear how much Renney is a incredible teacher for these players. So let's look at a couple things about Renney. Is our head coach the problem?

Personally, I don't like some of his decisions regarding line combinations, who he puts out on the ice at important times or even goaltending decisions. In spite of all that, this team is rebuilding and the most important aspect of this team is about development. So, with that being said, I think the most important question is, "Are we seeing development from the players who are in the long term future of this team?"

Who is improving? Gilbert, Smid and Potter we can all say we are happy with this year. Hall, Eberle and Nugent-Hopkins we can say we are happy with this year.

Who is struggling? Horcoff, Belanger, Hemsky, etc.. Not sure you notice like me, but I am seeing our young talent improving and the veterans failing at this point. Could it just be, we need to reshuffle the veterans who are filling spots on this team as we continue to grow and develop?

IMO , I really think you make no move on Tamby or Renney until seasons end. If Tamby can do something between now and the end of the season maybe a 1 year extension. If Renney can continue to grow and develop the important players who will be here in the future give him one more year as well. However, should Tamby do nothing to make this team better between now and season end, it is time in this fan's opinion to bring in new management before the draft in June. If Renney at this time next year is not getting better improvement in systems play from this team as a whole, it will be time as well for a coaching change.

I like all of these guys on a personal note, but not liking what we are seeing on a development note. Patience will be tough for fans as this season wears on. I think all Oilers fans really care about now, is to see some compete, each and every night. Give us a hard honest night's work of effort and we'll be more patient.

For more info on Oiler, Barons and Thunder hockey in addition for info on 2012 and 2013 NHL Draft prospects you can follow me on twitter at www.twitter.com/revingev

Oilers VS Flames "In for a Hall of a Game"

noreply@blogger.com (revingev) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 22:22:00 +0000

Tonight should be a splendid game to watch, after all, who doesn’t get up for a game against the Calgary Flames? Who really knows what to expect from this Oilers team at this time right now. Just when you expect to see this team rise from the cellar, they self explode. When you think the Oilers are dead in the water, they come storming out of the gates.

(which does not happen often anymore.)

I fully expect this city to be watching their favourite hero in his return to the ice tonight against the dreaded team red from the south. With his passion that he plays this game with and a return from almost a near fatal fluke accident, people will tune in just to see how he responds. Eberle in his second game back will enjoy some more time and space to maneuver out on the ice, as Hall will take some of the attention from the top defencemen and backcheckers. The PP will be where it truly shows the difference IMO.

Going into tonight’s game the rumours are really starting to heat up of who is available on various teams. I see some real potential BIG changes coming for the Oilers between now and July 2^nd. Something WILL happen before the trade deadline just not sure what kind of look it will mean. Instead of touching on players going out, lets look at players who are being rumoured available , if for a high price.

Here are some possibilities between now and July 2nd with players that could be obtained possibly for the Oilers. Not saying they WILL be, just saying their is talk of movement but as to who and where, no one can really say other then the GM's and they are not telling.

Goalies:

Ryan Miller

Evgeny Nabokov

Anders Lindback

Johnathan Bernier

Brent Johnson

JF Giguire

Defencemen:

Ryan Ellis

Ryan Suter

Shea Weber

Tyler Myers

Matt Niskanen

Vladislav Voynov

These are the most obvious goalies or defence that have possibilities, but in no way means would actually happen. There are deals to be had, but it will cost us players and not players who no one wants. Maybe a Paajarvi or a Hartikanen will be the minimum in a trade but no matter what, it will be players with upside and future potential that are requested in trades.

Make sure to catch the "Battle of Alberta" tonight on HNIC at 8pm Mountain time.
www.twitter.com/revingev

Oilers VS Blues "It's all about the future"

noreply@blogger.com (revingev) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 19:42:00 +0000

Oiler fans should start getting used to seeing this picture of Consol Energy Center in Pittsburgh. Not only is it one of the buildings we may model our new RX2 facility after in Edmonton, but it also is the location of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft in late June.

The injuries just keep getting stranger as the days go by. Never in my life (and I am 41 years old) have I seen so many injuries to key players let alone freak injuries these past few years. Instead of looking at these latest injuries as a sign of a curse or some theory that our trainers are not preparing the players properly, I am looking at this as a blessing in disguise.

Without these injuries the last few years there would be no Taylor Hall, and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. And now this year, it is very possible that late June you can either add Yakupov, Grigorenko or Murray to that fold as well. Do I think the Oilers can finish higher and not receive one of those players? Possible, but not very likely. Even with our three young stars performing well, this team is struggling on the backend and especially in goal. Unless something happens and the Oilers swing a deal for a Ryan Miller or something, this team will place likely bottom 5 this year at best.

Now here is my thought. What if this team could boast of having a dynamic duo? I know some of you see that already. What I am talking about is a dynamic duo down the middle.......

Pittsburgh is not only where we are drafting this year but a big two way centermen is available in that top 3. Maybe, just maybe, we are able to draft that big Russian to play with our Canadian in Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. RNH and Grigorenko down the middle looks pretty good in my eyes. Imagine having a combo of lines 1a and 1b with two elite centermen.

I myself would love to see a line combo as follows in next couple years....

HALL/NUGENT-HOPKINS/EBERLE

HARTIKANEN/GRIGORENKO/PAAJARVI

Place whichever player develops accordingly or even move those guys around and you have a pretty nice front loaded team up top. Even if Grigorenko takes a extra year to develop, this is one fan who would like to take the gamble and see this. Some may think I am jumping the gun on this, but mark my words, Grigorneko is the real deal and is a difference maker down the middle.

One more season working on development defencemen and 1 trade for a top 4 defencemen will see this team change drastically. So tonight as I watch this game against the blues, what is it I am looking to see? Truly, just looking to see some development out of the younger players as they continue to grow and learn. No more sour milk here for this blogger and fan. From here on in, gonna get back to focusing on prospects and development in this Oilers organization. Which brings me to something...almost time for some updates on the development of players in the organization. I will be on holidays for a couple weeks coming up soon, so will be posting some updates of development and thoughts on whats happening outside the big NHL club real soon.

In the meantime, here is hoping to see some continued good work from Lander and Paajarvi tonight. As I have mentioned on twitter and will do so on here, Paajarvi is really starting to be driving to the net well and gaining some confidence in each game. With the stars missing, IMO Renney needs to see if Magnus can rise to the occasion. The Blues are becoming a good team and it goes to show what patience gets you.

Go Oilers!

For Oiler ,Baron and Thunder news and the 2012/13 NHL draft watch www.twitter.com/revingev

NHL Mock Draft Rankings January 19th/12

noreply@blogger.com (revingev) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 17:33:00 +0000

For fun, I continue today with a weekly post of an "Oilers Mock NHL Draft Status". While it in no way is any indicator as to who the Oilers would select if they were to finish the season in that exact number, it gives us a idea as to what is available for them to select come that position. There are alot of Rankings out there, that get released continually. Of course since this is my blog, I am going to use my REVS 2012 NHL Prospect List for a drafting order.

With another week gone by the Oilers moved up in the standings. No, not the overall standings, but the Draft order. The worse they do, the better prospect they get to pick at the NHL Entry draft the end of June 2012. This week they moved from 4th pick to now sitting at 2nd pick. The Oilers also lost to the two teams who were below them in the standings, in the Ducks and the Blue Jackets.

Here is the 2012 top 15 NHL Mock Rankings as of Jan 19/12

1. Nail Yakupov

2. Mikhail Grigorenko

3.Ryan Murray

4.Morgan Rielly

5.Matthew Dumba

6.Alex Galchenyuk

7.Derrick Pouliot

8.Filip Forsberg

9.Griffin Reinhart

10.Cody Ceci

11.Zemgus Girgensons

12.Nick Ebert

13.Brendan Gaunce

14.Martin Frk

15.Olli Maatta

1st Round Traded Draft Picks

Washington receives Colorado's 2012 1st round pick and a 2012 or 2013 2nd round pick (Capitals choice) for Semyon Varlamov.

For Oiler ,Baron and Thunder news and the 2012/13 NHL draft watch www.twitter.com/revingev

Edmonton Oilers On The Move?

noreply@blogger.com (Smokin' Ray) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 18:54:00 +0000

Going by what I'm hearing on the radio and websites, there us a good possibility that some of the Oiler players will be on the move from now till the NHL trade deadline.

Bob Stauffer says that Ryan Smyth's agent is in Columbus today talking with Steve Tambellini. It could be about an extension or it could be about moving him to a cup contender and seeing him return to the Oilers in the summer. This late in his career it would be nice to see Smyth hoist the Stanley Cup. While it may not happen, there is that distinct possibility it will.

It's no secret that Ales Hemsky could be on the move as well. He's a free agent this summer and if Tambellini is smart, you don't let him walk for nothing. If Hemsky doesn't want an extension, he will be moved.

Sam Gagner has been very good lately and that could be reason enough to move him. I would think he's at his highest value right now. If the Oilers don't want to keep Gagner for the long term, now might be the best time to get max value for him. Me personally, I'd keep him.

Can the Oilers get anything for Nik Khabibulin? Possibly. Not sure how legit it is, but rumor has it Tampa Bay might want him back. He's been pretty good this year, but good enough a team wants him? Wait and see.

It also sounds like the Oilers might want to move Andy Sutton. He's a good teammate, but it's not looking like he's part if the future in Oil country. Possibility that he's traded soon too.

What will the Oilers get done and who's on the move? Stay tuned to www.OilersJambalaya.com

-Written by Smokin' Ray Burnt-

"Oilers VS BluJackets" Rebuild in motion

noreply@blogger.com (revingev) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 16:23:00 +0000

Today as the Oilers take to action on the ice in Columbus, it's a battle of the cellar bottom dwellers. OK that does not sound so appealing. I know in Columbus it may suck, but if they look at the two picks that are available in Yakupov and Grigorenko, they should not be all that worried. I still wonder if they trade off Carter as he never really wanted to go there anyway. If I am a Oiler fan (which I am) I am not happy my team keeps losing year after year (cause that is embarrassing) but how can you not be happy knowing a top 5 pick will be a incredible pick once again?

This is a rebuild no question and instead of seeing which team we want to rebuild like, what if we rebuild in a new fashion, a way we know this franchise won't be doing this for a minimum of another 15 years? I see no reason we need to look like Chicago, Pittsburgh etc. Nor should we look like Ottawa, New York, Atlanta, Florida etc.. These last couple draft years have really brought some good talent into the fold that will be good for trading or possible players for this team for awhile. Sure we got holes still, but no other last place team consecutive years has had this much talent injured year after year to finish lower in the standings then they should, like the Oilers.

The young people we have been bringing in through drafting are excelling and on track. It's the trades and or veterans that are failing this team more then anything else. While it's not easy seeing your team lose so many games, it's also pretty exciting seeing the high end talent that is being stockpiled on this team. Talk to GM's in Detroit, New Jersey, Pittsburgh, New York, and even Chicago and you will hear the same thing. They will all tell you this team in Edmonton will be a scary team to play real soon.

In this rebuild, the real question will soon become, how do we pay all these high draft picks when they come out of their entry level contracts or will we be trading off elite talent cause we can't pay them all within the salary cap? That is where, this will have to be the last year we can be a bottom 5 team in the lottery or else we will become like those teams who drafted high but never can put the bigger package together. This team at year end will need to be a minimum 80point team next year or heads will roll. Guaranteed their will be changes in management and coaching should this team not improve next year.

We hear that a rebuild is about development and all our young talent is developed and doing well or at least treading water. Where the failure comes in is the veterans on this team. It is with that reason, come trade deadline, I truly believe those decisions in who goes and who stays will be decided. Veterans who improve development of younger players stay, those who do not contribute to the development of younger players will be traded or let go eventually.

As much as I want to be frustrated and mad at the amount of games this team is losing, I still find myself watching every game and til the end regardless of score. Play hard, play tough, show some development and improve next year, Oiler fans will be patient. I fully expect a win tonight in Columbus, as the Blue Jackets "Fail for Nail". btw....It's just a guess, but I think your looking at the last season for Rick Nash as he will become a part of a new rebuild in Columbus. Just a hunch, nothing more.

Go Oilers!

for further news on 2012 and 2013 Draft picks and Oiler Prospects you can follow me on twitter at
www.twitter.com/revingev

NHL Mock Draft Rankings January 12/12

noreply@blogger.com (revingev) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 15:11:00 +0000

For fun, I am going to weekly post a "Oilers Mock NHL Draft Status". While it in no way is any indicator as to who the Oilers would select if they were to finish the season in that exact number, it gives us a idea as to what is available for them to select come that position. There are alot of Rankings out there, that get released continually. Of course since this is my blog, I am going to use my REVS 2012 NHL Prospect List for a drafting order. While some of you may disagree with my selections and rankings, I have been fairly accurate not only in ranking the new talent each year at the NHL Draft but also have been fairly close on the exact players each team selects at the draft. Now of course, that is me telling you I have done well and asking you to take my word for it. So why not throw it out there so the blogger world can see? It's all in fun anyway.

So without delay here is the 2012 top 15 NHL Mock Rankings as of Jan 12/12

1. Nail Yakupov

2. Mikhail Grigorenko

3.Ryan Murray

4.Morgan Rielly

5.Matthew Dumba

6.Alex Galchenyuk

7.Derrick Pouliot

8.Filip Forsberg

9.Griffin Reinhart

10.Cody Ceci

11.Zemgus Girgensons

12.Nick Ebert

13.Brendan Gaunce

14.Martin Frk

15.Olli Maatta

1st Round Traded Draft Picks

Washington receives Colorado's 2012 1st round pick and a 2012 or 2013 2nd round pick (Capitals choice) for Semyon Varlamov.

For Oiler ,Baron and Thunder news and the 2012/13 NHL draft watch www.twitter.com/revingev

Game Day "Oilers VS Devils"

noreply@blogger.com (revingev) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 17:26:00 +0000

"Beginning of the End?"

Just like you can see in this picture above, several of our video games or movies today destroy our cities greatest monuments that represent who we are. In hockey's version of the movies and video games, it destroys our greatest players bringing them right back down to reality.

No, I am not blogging about how bad a team we are because of Tamby, Renney or Klowe. I am not complaining about the bad decisions I feel get made on a weekly basis from Oilers ownership, management and coaches. The real reason behind the crumbling year after year has been our star "monuments" are being destroyed by injury, year after year.

Granted, we have many other problems, but should our star players (maybe not star players to other teams, but they are our best players) not be falling to injury, this team would be on a different course for the future. Maybe a course that some think would be a better one, maybe it would be a worse course to be on. All I am saying is, should our best players be healthy most of the season, we wouldn't be feeling the curse so early in a NHL season.

While this team may be falling once again into the basement of the NHL, there is always the upside. I plan to take more time in detail and cover that further in another blog soon. For today, the Devil is in the house and Rexall needs a

"Exorcism".

You want to beat the Devils? Then quit playing their game! In fact quit playing the game of any NHL team the Oilers face. We need to identify what kind of game the Oilers play and stick to that regardless of how or who plays for another team. Win or Lose, but play to your greatest strengths of players and coaching. No more quick fixes or players who act as props. If they don't play our kind of game, then ship them out for something, someway. This is a rebuild right? We are developing right? Then if we are going to do this, let's do it right.

As far as what kind of team the Oilers are...that I have no idea. I think I have a idea, but it could be wrong. If our management and coaching can't tell you what kind of game we play, then maybe they don't know either. It's time to decide what kind of players we want to work with and how this team should be built. However, Mr.Tambellini, please explain that to us fans who are the true employers. Without us, Katz would tire of his little toy and sell it off at the next garage sale. As fans we deserve to be able to hear exactly what this team should be looking like. Are we a defensive minded trap team (or should I say left wing lock?). Are we a fire wagon hockey team that is about reckless abandon? I really don't care anymore which we are, but maybe let's just play that way.

I will be the first to say what no one wants to say about tonight. "No more injuries! It's over! Now, let's play some HOCKEY!"

Oh yeah, forgot to mention, Paajarvi is back. Good to hear and I will be rooting for him from the top of my lungs tonight. Thumbs up to Magnus and his beginning to a awesome new year!

Go Oilers!

Gametime 7:00pm, CHED630am/TSN

For Oiler and Baron news and 2012/13 NHL draft watch www.twitter.com/revingev

"A Closer look into potential 2012 Oilers Draft picks"

noreply@blogger.com (revingev) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 17:27:00 +0000

(all joking aside, I do not feel the Oilers should tank this season, but one more elite talent like Nail Yakupov would be pretty sweet)

REVS 2012 Prospects List (Jan 8th/12)

1.Nail Yakupov

- Nail continues to impress as the season goes on. He had a back injury of sort while playing with Sarnia just before the World Jr's, however he was back a few games before the tourney and then ended up with another injury apparently in the OT of the Gold Medal game against Sweden. The guy was amazing in that he played the third line and was a difference maker among 19 year olds with the best in the world. He did play on Russia's top PP but how could you not?

Nail currently has 53 points in 26 games playing for Sarnia and that is without his centremen Galchenyuk. He also finished the world jr tourney with 9 points in 7 games. Yakupov is a game breaker and for those of you who have saw him, he skates so incredibly hard and strong,almost no one or anything could stop him in full flight without taking a penalty. Nail has done nothing other then sustain a couple injuries to show why he should be ranked #1.

2.Mikhail Grigorenko

-Mikhail has been flying all year. No matter what arena he has played in, fans, coaches and scouts leave knowing that this guy is one special player. Grigorenko has been posting the points since the beginning of the year with 58 points in 36 games. He will most likely also be up for Rookie of the year honours for the Q along with Nathan MacKinnon but came over in the import draft therefore making him a older aged player.

Mikhail truly runs the offence with his team in Quebec and this guy can move quick. His height, weight and speed on the ice is right up there with the best of them and his defensive awareness is very good as well. Some do say, he can appear to take a shift or two off on occasion. Grigorenko finished the world jr tourney with 5 points in his 6 games played but only played healthy without a injury in 2 of those. For those who saw Mikhail play in the tournament, he was playing at maybe 50% of what has been seen this year to date. Some rankings have him as high as #1 but most at #2.

3.Ryan Murray

-the apparent scapegoat for many Canadian fans due to a few pucks bouncing off his body into the net in their eventual loss to the Russians. If you were to look at the rest of his play throughout that game you will have noticed he still played the angles well, played with poise and moved the puck well to the forwards. He covered the point with extreme precision when cycling the puck in the Russian end on most the occasions out there.

Ryan had just returned from a injury prior to the world jr tourney and making that team with the depth that was available on defence speaks volumes on its own. While Ryan is no Scott Neidemeyer, he skates alot like him and could very well make a quicker transition into the NHL then the other defencemen that will be selected in the first round. Considering the few bad moments in that Russia game,Murray was really one of the top defensive players in the tourney and for still being draft eligible, that is a amazing feat. He finished with 3 points in the 6 games he played. With the Everett Silvertips Ryan has 9 points in 14 games played. Should he have been playing and not sustained his injury , it is likely he would be in the top 15 defencemen in scoring for the WHL.

4.Morgan Rielly

-Morgan was flying to start off his year in Moose Jaw with 18 points in 18 games. His injury has definitely put some question marks on his draft rankings but scouts feel pretty confident with what was seen last year and the way he flew out of the gates offensively this year, they have a ok read on where his game can translate. Due to his injury, some rankings have dropped him but this player has too much upside to actually drop for me to place him lower. Had he not started the season the way he did, it would have been a real difficult choice to place him even in the top 7 rankings for the 2012 NHL Draft.

Rielly has really taken on the role as cheerleader and motivator for his team while recovering from injury but according to those on his team has really taken a leadership role despite not playing on ice. From what I have saw of this player, he really does skate and move out on the ice alot like Duncan Keith. Should Morgan fall in the draft , some team could be picking up a top end talent at a position they never thought they would be in.

5.Mathew Dumba

- Known as a open ice hitter, relentless on the puck and a river boat gambler, Dumba is making waves everywhere he plays. His season started slower then expected but he has really been rounding into good form as of late. Some rankings even place Dumba as 2nd or 3rd overall to go in the 2012 NHL Draft. Currently has 25 points in 38 games played but his plus/minus sitting at 4 is a concern for me.

He led and impressed at the U17 for Canada and was at the world jr selection camp but did not make the final cuts. Some believe he was exactly what Canada was missing on the backend in that Russia game. My two concerns with Dumba being drafted higher have to do with his overall height for a defencemen and the fact his style of play may not work against stronger and bigger players in the NHL.

6.Alex Galchenyuk

-Call me partial, but this player could very well be in competition for that #1 ranking had he played this season and not fallen to injury in the pre-season. Alex takes life in stride but his hockey pedigree can not be mistaken. His on ice vision, ability to raise the play of others around him and his leadership should still give him enormous consideration for a top 10 pick in the 2012 NHL Draft.

Alex is working hard on his recovery and should his team make the playoffs into the second round there is a small possibility he could be joining them. I have dropped Galchenyuk in my ranking but only because of some uncertainty at this time with not having had this year to play or will be anytime soon. If it were me and I was the one selecting at the draft, I would place him at #2 or #3 and take the gamble. Some scouts have said there is no real concerns with his development due to this injury and feel he is a world class player. Galchenyuk had decided he would not play for his native land Slovakia but for the U.S as he was born there.

7.Derrick Pouliot

-Another defencemen that has a lot of upside to his game. Currently this year he has 29 points in 41 games playing for Portland and some are saying his offence is just starting to pick up. The biggest concern is his risk taking with the puck, but his natural talent there is no questioning. Derrick would very well have a higher ranking in some other year, but with so much high end talent appearing in this draft year, Derrick is in tough in the top 10.

His calm demeanor is impressive and even though a game may be hanging in the balance, Derrick is able to just go out and perform without

showing any signs of breaking down mentally.

8.Filip Forsberg

- Some scouts have Filip ranked higher and say his low offensive output is due to playing with men in the Swedish elite league. I had early season concerns on his offensive game and now have even further concerns having seen some of his play at the world jr tourney in alberta Canada. He tallied 1 point in the 6 games and was even on his plus/minus. Granted Sweden had a older team but Filip does not look to be as strong a player at this age as even Lander or Paajarvi did in this tourney. His stats back home in the elite league have him at 7 points in 26 games for the big club and not even close to a point a game with the jr clubs.

Unless something changes in his offensive output in the back half of the season Forsberg may even drop from the top 10 rankings or especially at the draft itself. His Plus/minus even at all playing levels back in Sweden are hovering around even mark only. A big strong power forward but needs to start playing like a elite player at all levels of competition.

9.Griffin Reinhart

- A big defencemen who sometimes is actually called out by some for not being physical enough and for not being a nasty player out there on the ice against smaller men in the WHL. What I like so far about his game is more then his size and strength on the puck, it's his positioning and the way he thinks the game. Another player with good family pedigree who shows it in the way he plays and approaches every game. Currently Reinhart just sustained a injury but unsure how long he will be out for. He has 23 points in 34 games.

The fact he has yet to impress by using his size and playing with a nasty streak is exciting for me on his upside. Often a player like Reinhart will excel at the jr level (see Alex Plante) due to his size, playing against smaller and lighter players, but upon entering a league like the AHL or NHL they are not able to adjust to the bigger and stronger players. His game to date has not been about size, so IMO he is seeing his high Draft ranking due to his skill and smarts not because of his size.

10.Cody Ceci

-For those who are not following the OHL very closely, they may see Ceci in a different light then those who are. Cody was at both the Development Camp and the Selection camp for Team Canada as a draft eligible player and did not look out of place. At 6'3, 210 lbs and with 36 points in 39 games, no one should be thinking this is a surprise.

Cody's game has been steadily improving as each month passes and is one of the reason's Ottawa is seeing the success they have. While some may not see Cody as a strong and fast skater, you also won't find many players getting past him anytime soon. He is extremely agile for a player his size and uses his strength to his advantage while playing the opposing players up against the boards or clearing them from in front of the net.

11.Zemgus Girgensons

-Zemgusjrs with 6 games played and he potted a couple goals for Latvia. His country had a weak team and scored little but was good to see he was clearly their best player most games. Zemgus did not look out of place against the other elite talent in the world.

Has been having a awesome season with the Fighting Saints in the USHL scoring 27 points in 24 games. He is slated to play NCAA next year for University of Vermont. Zemgus has always been a point per game player on every team he has played on and this year looks to be no different. A good playoff could go a long ways to being selected even higher in this 2012 NHL Entry draft.

12.Nick Ebert

Ebert has taken a small step backwards in my draft rankings this time around, but not so much because of poor play but more so because of the high end skill and talent that is available. Ebert has not shown as much growth in the game of hockey this season as he has in years past. Some say, he's on cruise control and come seasons end, we will see what Nick can really do at that elite level. Consistency is the key word for Nick.

With 19 points in 42 games, his offence has slowed down this year, when it was expected to go up. Ebert is a very steady and usually reliable defender who could also just be playing for a team that does not have a lot of support to highlight his game.

13.Brendan Gaunce

-Brendan has really been taking the OHL by storm this year. He was looked at already as possible first round pick, but few scouts disagree, that he is a player who continues to grow and flourish as the season has gone on. He currently has 41 points in his 39 games and is seldom a player caught out of position.

Brendan appears to be a real student of the game and continues to hone his craft as he continues to grow and mature into his 6'2 , 212 lb frame.

14.Martin Frk

-Sustaining a pre-season injury has slowed Frk's progress considerably this season. It was a season where he was hoped to be paired with Rookie Phenom Nathan MacKinnon but due to bad luck has only recently started playing again. Coming back from concussions can be a slow progress as fans are seeing but it seems to be more about timing and Frk is really starting to come around to the form that had him ranked in most NHL drafts in the top 10 going into the season.

Frk with 3 points in 9 games will be looking to have a splendid last part of his season should he want to be selected higher in the top 10 in 2012. Playing with Drouin and MacKinnon will only help those offensive numbers. Should he not finish in the point a game department, Frk could even fall further in his ranking due to lack of offence on a offensive team and questions on his recovery from a concussion.

15.Olli Maatta

- Olli has 17 points in his 33 games as a London Knight and continues to grow in his defensive awareness while on the ice. Early on, he was looking to be more of a point producer but as the season has wore on some of his gambles on the blueline have not paid off as well. Olli is young and very teachable and should still look to be a very high drafted player in 2012, but his lack of progress in comparison to other in the Draft may hurt his overall ranking come selection day.

For Oiler ,Baron and Thunder news and the 2012/13 NHL draft watch www.twitter.com/revingev

REVS 2012 Prospects List (Jan 8th/12)

noreply@blogger.com (revingev) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 15:21:00 +0000

REVS 2012 Prospects List (Jan 8th/12)

1.Nail Yakupov

2.Mikhail Grigorenko

3.Ryan Murray

4.Morgan Rielly

5.Mathew Dumba

6.Alex Galchenyuk

7.Derrick Pouliot

8.Filip Forsberg

9.Griffin Reinhart

10.Cody Ceci

11.Zemgus Girgensons

12Nick Ebert

13.Brendan Gaunce

14.Martin Frk

15.Olli Maatta

For those of you who followed my prospects ranking from October/11, you will notice some small changes. Unfortunately with so many injuries in the 2012 Prospect Draft class it has been much more difficult to read each players development in comparrision to each other. This list is not a mock ranking as to where they will be selected but my personal ranking in terms of talent that is available at that ranking. In my next blog on the players, I will break down the season's development of each of the top 15 on my list.

Honourable mention that did not rank in the top 15 in my ranking are..

Jacob Trouba

Radek Faksa

Slater Koekkoek

Malcolm Subban

For Oiler ,Baron and Thunder news and the 2012/13 NHL draft watch www.twitter.com/revingev

Oilers 2012 NHL Draft Watch "Jacob Trouba"

noreply@blogger.com (revingev) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 20:43:00 +0000

REVS 2012 Prospects List (Oct 3rd/11)

1.Nail Yakupov

2.Mikhail Grigorenko

3.Ryan Murray

4.Alex Galchenyuk

5.Morgan Rielly

6.Mathew Dumba

7.Nick Ebert

8.Filip Forsberg

9.Griffin Reinhart

10.Martin Frk

11.Derrick Pouliot

12.Cody Ceci

13.Olli Maatta

14.Zemgus Girgensons

15.Jacob Trouba

Today we examine the final #15ranked player from REVS 2012 Prospects List . Each player is unique in their own right and full of talent. The ranking does not reflect a mock draft of who a team may actually pick but rather who I would place as the best player available in that spot.

Jacob Trouba

Pos: F

HT:6'1 ft
WT:183

Born: Rochester, MN

2010/11 USHL Games 31 G 3 A 4 PTS 7 Plus/Minus -2
2011/12 USHL Games 8 G 0 A 3 PTS 3 Plus/Minus 3
Trouba has had a few scouts agree on a Cam Fowler type player with more of an edge. While I agree his style of play is similar, in no way has he produced like Cam has or likely will. I think it's mostly his laterally skating and break out passing that brings that comparison.

Jacob is considered very coachable and is always growing and learning as he grows into a high end defencemen. Trouba says “I gotta get better in all areas,But in the defensive zone I need to focus on my guy more.” Jacob has been rated at a higher ranking by many rankings but being he is more defensive of a player the offensive it may hurt his ranking in the top 15.

For Oiler and Baron news and 2012/13 NHL draft watch www.twitter.com/revingev

Game Day "Oilers VS Stars"

noreply@blogger.com (revingev) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 17:51:00 +0000

"Rising STARS, or Seeing STARS?"

Here we go with another one of those whacky times for a hockey game on Saturday. In fact I almost forgot that we had a game today, so getting this blog out real late for a game day post. Regardless of the fact, the Oilers are in a tail spin and I mean a bad tail spin. Lots of excuses, lots of comments about playing a better game but until this team can at least put a consistant game together for 50% of the games they play, they WILL be a lottery team again.

These last games, the team has played well, worked hard and got some timely goals. The PP continues to do well as does the PK usually but the penalties dont stop coming, the stupid decisions at important times are what are costing this team games.

I know some are pouring out the excuses like, no defencemen depth left with injuries. Key forwards with offence are hurt and not playing, Goalies are struggling, not working hard enough, need more intensity. The list goes on. I will comment more on this in a "REVS Oilers Rant and Raves" to be posted at another time.

In the mean time these players need to put in a 60 minute effort, take less chances in their road games and stick to the system they have been taught. I do enjoy at least we are in every game, but not enjoying losing every game. Over the last month, the Oilers ARE the worst team in the entire NHL. That is not acceptable by me or many other fans. I know we are in a rebuild, but what I hate is how we wasted 3 years doing nothing before a rebuild even was considered. Now we are in year 2? Opps, need to get back on topic, this is intended for another blog to be later posted in a " "REVS Oilers Rant and Raves".

Ok all joking aside, the Oilers need to pick up another win here this afternoon in the big D. Today's game hopefully will see some different line up combo's but have heard nothing new on that front. Hartikanen must be dogged from 5 games in 6 days, but at least got another day off , so after today only 6 games in 8 days. Hopefully we soon get to see him playing with some skill. Afterall, isn't it a good idea to put some skill out with a good checker who can score with soft hands and is a beast on the puck in the offensive zone?

Unfortunately as much as I want to see a win today in Dallas, I think the Oilers will be seeing Stars rather then be the rising Stars! Go Oilers! Prove me wrong!

Gametime 12:00pm, CHED630am/Sportsnet-West

For Oiler and Baron news and 2012/13 NHL draft watch www.twitter.com/revingev

Oilers 2012 NHL Draft Watch "Zemgus Girgensons"

noreply@blogger.com (revingev) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 13:37:00 +0000

REVS 2012 Prospects List (Oct 3rd/11)

1.Nail Yakupov

2.Mikhail Grigorenko

3.Ryan Murray

4.Alex Galchenyuk

5.Morgan Rielly

6.Mathew Dumba

7.Nick Ebert

8.Filip Forsberg

9.Griffin Reinhart

10.Martin Frk

11.Derrick Pouliot

12.Cody Ceci

13.Olli Maatta

14.Zemgus Girgensons

15.Jacob Trouba

Today we examine the #14 ranked player from REVS 2012 Prospects List . Each player is unique in their own right and full of talent. The ranking does not reflect a mock draft of who a team may actually pick but rather who I would place as the best player available in that spot.

Zemgus Girgensons

Pos: F

HT:6'1 ft
WT:184

Born: Riga,Latvia

2010/11 Dubuque Games 51 G 21 A 28 PTS 49

2011/12 Dubuque Games 22 G 12 A 14 PTS 26

Coming over to North America in 2008 and playing in the Selects Hockey program, a summer hockey organization whose alumni include Sam Gagner and Greg Nemisz,he played for Vermont’s Green Mountain Glades of the Eastern Junior League.

His coach has commented “He’s dominant down the middle,” Montgomery said. “He’s a complete player who works as hard defensively as he does offensively.” Prior to arriving his coach also said “There was a buzz around the Northeast about him, I knew he was committed to Vermont and that he could be an impact player even at 16.” Zemgus is a powerful center, passion is not a problem whose own coach even brings up names such as Jonathan Toews and Mark Messier to describe the youngster’s will.

Zemgus does not give up in pursuit of the puck or while carrying it. He is considered a relentless player. Zemgus when asking for a comparrision for his game style, he brings up the likes of Ryan Kessler but some say he plays like Rob Brind'Amour. His all out skill is considered great but not elite which may hinder his ability to sneak into a top 8 at the NHL 2012 Draft. On one ranking out there he is listed at #2 behind Nail Yakupov. I personally think that is a little too high but some scouts like the drive and heart this young player shows.

For Oiler and Baron news and 2012/13 NHL draft watch www.twitter.com/revingev

Game Day "Oilers VS Blues"

noreply@blogger.com (revingev) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 22:12:00 +0000

"SINGING THE BLUES?"

Sorry for the late game day post oiler family, but was a busy day at work and a early one too. Off to pick up the wife who is sick from work. Did I say, sick at work or sick from work?..(haha!) Then off to pick the SUV up from detailing and then off to a local sports establishment to catch tonight's game VS the St.Louis Blues.

With RNH out for 3-4 weeks, how will this affect his run for the Calder Cup trophy? I hope it doesn't , cause their is not much good news this year in Oilerland and I sure hope to see him back soon. Good news is, the Oilers did play well in Buffalo and deserved a better fate. I am calling for a Oiler win tonight but stranger things have happened.

All I ask for tonight is a non-injury game to our players. Is it too late for Santa to deliver that a year early? The boys are ready and raring to go tonight, so here is hoping they can pull off the win, they so desperately are seeking. Sorry for the short blog folks, but time is a wasting and I need to get my backside moving.

Go OILERS!

Gametime 6:00pm, CHED630am/Sportsnet-Edm

For Oiler and Baron news and 2012/13 NHL draft watch www.twitter.com/revingev

Our Prospect Pool at the Juniors

noreply@blogger.com (realgrass) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 07:16:00 +0000

The Oilers have quite a few prospects in the 2012 World Junior Hockey Championship. None of them played for our beloved Team Canada but they played some pretty important roles on their respective teams. These players include Oscar Klefbom, David Musil, Kristian Pelss, Martin Gernat and Martin Marincin. Over the course of the tournament I decided to take short notes on what I noticed from each player.

Klefbom - He is one great positional player, he may not be the most physically strong man out there but he knows how to separate the man from the puck, simply with his positioning. Klefbom also has a great read on the play, he is constantly alert and knows where to be. A slight problem of his however is to make good, but fairly chancy plays, that can be costly to his team.

Musil - He is also a brilliant player at reading plays, very alert. Musil is also great with the stick, he is very capable with his poke checks. One thing I had noticed is his unmistakable ability when in front of the net, his physical dominance and shot blocking.

Kristian Pelss - To be honest I have not seen much of his play, but from what I have heard he was one of the best players on Latvia's team.

Martin Gernat - Great skater with great stick work. Aggressive offensively in the attacking zone but can sometimes be a little too offensive. With his size comes a hard shot, but for his size he is also very mobile on his feet.

Martin Marincin - He can very much be like his fellow team mate, Martin Gernat. Another large sized defenceman with a booming shot and great mobility. He can however make some risky plays with his stretch passes.

On another note: I'm proud of Canada, of course we all wanted gold, but the boys played with heart and soul, obviously they didn't want to end up in the bronze game either.

GO Canada GO!

I don't know about you guys, but tonight I'm rooting for the Swedes, I just can't bear to see the Russians win again.

Let's Go Oilers!!!

http://twitter.com/realgrass#

Oilers 2012 NHL Draft Watch "Olli Maatta"

noreply@blogger.com (revingev) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 17:09:00 +0000

REVS 2012 Prospects List (Oct 3rd/11)

1.Nail Yakupov

2.Mikhail Grigorenko

3.Ryan Murray

4.Alex Galchenyuk

5.Morgan Rielly

6.Mathew Dumba

7.Nick Ebert

8.Filip Forsberg

9.Griffin Reinhart

10.Martin Frk

11.Derrick Pouliot

12.Cody Ceci

13.Olli Maatta

14.Zemgus Girgensons

15.Jacob Trouba

Today we examine the #13 ranked player from REVS 2012 Prospects List . Each player is unique in their own right and full of talent. The ranking does not reflect a mock draft of who a team may actually pick but rather who I would place as the best player available in that spot.

Olli Matta

Pos: D

HT:6'2 ft
WT:198

Born: Jyvaskyla, Finland

2011/2012 Games 33 G 1 A 16 PTS 17 Plus/Minus 14

Olli is a physical d-man who has good positioning and a good first pass. Usually plays with calmness and makes smart plays. Likes to skate the puck to the offensive zone. Olli also has a good shot and accurate too. His biggest asset is how consistent he is. Can play at all situations but his skating will need some work, lacks immediate acceleration and is a bit lacking in his pivots and turns

He was also the youngest player ever to make the Finland WJC team (same age as Reijo Ruotsalainen, Janne Niniimaa and Mikael Granlund, but with an August birthdate, younger than any of them) he played only sparingly (in last preliminary round game against Slovakia), but showed off why he was on the team in the first place. One NHL scout said: "He's two-way, all around defenseman. He does a little bit of everything and has a lot of enthusiasm. His first shift was full of excitement; he had courage to show up and play and he wasn't panicking with his feet."

Olli is London's top scoring defencemen along with Scott harrington (Penquins draft pick). Some who watch and observe his game say he is more of a quiet kind of guy but his teammates consider him more of a talkative young man inside the dressing room and off the ice.

For Oiler and Baron news and 2012/13 NHL draft watch www.twitter.com/revingev

Tom Renney Is Very Unhappy With Ales Hemsky?

noreply@blogger.com (Smokin' Ray) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 19:08:00 +0000

No doubt in my mind the Oilers coaching staff has had enough of Ales "Too Soft" Hemsky. Today's comments by Tom Renney rings out loud and clear.

With only 11 seconds left to play in the game, Ales Hemsky couldn't beat out the icing call setting up a faceoff in the Oilers end. In other words, he eased up.

"I've gotta play him. Manpower situation being what it is, his skill level, his ability to turn a game around.", says Renney. "I'll keep playing him till someone tells me not to, or I get to the point where we need to change the scenery. I'm not to that point yet."
Yet...

-Written by Smokin' Ray Burnt-

**Quotes from Marc Spector**

Game Day "Oilers VS Sabres"

noreply@blogger.com (revingev) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 17:47:00 +0000

"Will the Oilers apply the SWORD or take the SWORD?"

The Oilers tonight are in Buffalo taking on the Buffalo Sabres and are pretty banged up on the injury front once again. RNH has now gone done with a self inflicted shoulder injury from most reports and Tom Gilbert is out with a knee problem. No word officially on Gilbert but should be out some time I am thinking, based on how much of a ironman he is. Tom plays through pain often but to miss a game makes this pretty legit.

As has been reported already here at Oilersjambalaya and several other sites, Josh Green and Colten Teubert have been recalled from OKC. A great opportunity for these guys to prove their solid worth to the organization.

Colten has now been recalled 4x, so this is becoming a positive sign for him this season. I hear some people look at him as a 7th defencemen and while he may not quite be ready for the big show in the NHL on a regular basis yet, I would still have him as my 6th ahead of any other player on this team this year. The way he plays the body can really wear and tear down the opponent. If he could work more on his foot speed over the summer, Colten has a good chance to stick with this club full time next year for sure as the rotating 6th-7th defencemen. Colten is probably a career 4-5th defencemen at best, but remember how many real jobs in the NHL is there for that position? It's a hard job and since he is not flashy people don't give him enough credit for the small plays he contributes, plus I really like his shot from the point.

I was not impressed once again with Renney's icetime and how he handed it out for Hartikanen. He played 8 plus minutes only, yet played at a level he is expected to play and created havoc in the opponents end. I have to admit, he looked good with Eager out there. There is talk, Eager may get that 3rd line playing time rather then Hartikanen tonight. If it is true, if Eager does not follow up last games effort in the first period against the Sabres, I say move Hartikanen up there and let him bang bodies and create havoc in the offensive zone again.

I will give Renney props as some others have, for playing Dubynk and Eager after a poor showing in Long Island. They were pleasant surprises, even though I was real worried about Devan after that first goal. Gagner played a strong game with Hall and Hemsky and Sutton had a strong game I thought on the backend.

I have no idea how this game will play out tonight, but I will say, I am looking forward to how they will respond on yet another back to back game. If past is a indicator, it won't be good. Let's hope they bang out a win for the Edmonton Oiler faithful tonight!

Gametime 5:00pm, CHED630am/Sportsnet-Edm

For Oiler and Baron news and 2012/13 NHL draft watch www.twitter.com/revingev

Former Oilers Player Josh Green Recalled With Colten Teubert

noreply@blogger.com (Smokin' Ray) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 15:05:00 +0000

I was going to suggest this the other day before the injuries happened but figured I'd be ripped for saying it. Josh Green has been recalled.

If you remember, Green was an Oiler not that long ago. He was a utility type player while he was here and I'd expect him to fit right into what ever plans Tom Renney will have for him.The last time we seen Green on Rexall ice as an Oiler was 2003.

On this current club, he'd fit in a 4th or 3rd line role nicely. He's been playing well in OKC and I believe the Oilers made the right call.

In 19 games, Green has 7 goals, 10 assists for 17 points. It seems that the old dogg still has some bark.

I'm interested in seeing him play with the Oil.

It's just too bad he's not going to play in Edmonton. I'm sure the fans would have given him a welcome back salute.

Colten Teubert was also recalled to replace the injured Tom Gilbert.

GOILERS!!!

-Written by Smokin' Ray Burnt-

Ryan Nugent-Hopkins Injured Shoulder vs Blackhawks

noreply@blogger.com (Smokin' Ray) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 02:41:00 +0000

Edmonton Oilers superstar rookie sensation Ryan Nugent-Hopkins was injured in the 1st period of the Oilers vs Blackhawks game tonight. It appears to be a shoulder injury after he caught an edge and banged into the boards on his own.

No word yet on the severity of his injury or how long he will be out.

We will update this as we hear more.

**EDIT** (9:21pm MT) RNH left the arena wearing a sling. Tom Renney was asked about his condition and all he said is that RNH and Gilbert will not play tomorrow. If he's in a sling, that sounds like it could be long term. I'd guess he's out for a week at least.

-Written by Smokin' Ray Burnt-

Game Day "Oilers vs Blackhawks"

noreply@blogger.com (revingev) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 16:59:00 +0000

"The RISE Of HaRtiKAnEN"

Just last game I brought mention to this exactly happening. Teemu would have most likely even got a earlier call from Tamby had he not fallen to injury. He is exactly IMO the type of player the Oilers need to have in their top 9, Sure he is a rookie still but Teemu is not exactly a green rookie. He spent some good time in OKC last year, came up and did a splendid job in a limited time to round out the year. This year he has once again been consistent as a player in OKC and I am sure is licking at the chops to get his NHL chance once again.

At this point of time, it is Teemu's chance to prove his worth. If he plays the same way in Edmonton as he has in OKC he will be sticking with this club on a permanent basis. It will take consistency and hard work but as long as he doesn't become a defensive liability at the NHL level, I expect he won't be sent back. I do have one hesitation however. We were told when Hartikanen was sent down to OKC that he is a player that is not suited for a 4th line role. He is a top 9 player who needs the ice time because of the kind of game he plays. How will he be played here in Edmonton? I am really interested to see how Renney handles this one. I am one who feels Renney mishandles his line-up and icetime with his players but until we see what comes of this call-up I will stay quiet on that point.

RNH has been quite average as of the last couple weeks (hence not being selected rookie of the month) but the pressure, travel, wear and tear of players top end defencemen, banging and fighting for the puck night in and night out, must take its toll on his smaller frame. I know he has still put up some points, but I do expect things to change pretty soon for RNH. IMO, Nugent-Hopkins needs a player like Hartikanen to help take some of the load in the cycle zone with banging and crashing yet who carries soft hands. I doubt at this stage we see that, but it something that can be a possibility as Hartikanen improves at this level.

Last game once again Horcoff, Smyth and Hemskey (oh yeah don't forget Gagner) were give away machines again. Mostly Gagner and Horcoff but what is the consequence when they make these horrid mistakes? Nothing in my eyes. When the kids make these mistakes , you see them miss a shift or two. Their excuse is they are young and learning, what's the veteran's excuse? It's ok, as a fan, I have come to expect to see at least 4-5 giveaways in the offensive zone every game and 1-2 in the defensive zone as well.

The Blackhawks are a top elite team and chances are good the Oilers get schooled in this game once again. Some solid consistent goaltending would be nice, along with steady defence and lots of shots on net. You want to beat Chicago? Play a puck possession game and gets shots on net. They beat them bad once before this season, I know they can at least pull out a 1 goal victory in Chicago.

Questions is, "Which Oiler team shows up tonight?"

Hartikanen Hit

Hartikanen Goal

Gametime 6:30pm, CHED630am/Sportsnet-West

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