orangejersey_sept11

 

When Nellis was announced to be the new General Manager of the Edmonton Oilers, ownership was making a clear statement to their players and fan base – Change was coming.

“I did interview for a few jobs over the last few weeks, but I was very honest and I think that’s why I wasn’t being hired by a CDNHL team” said GM Nellis.

Let’s face it, Nellis is known for making changes… alot of changes and this is what made some owners nervous he says but in Edmonton – that is what they were looking for! “When I started the interview, I always list the guys I’d move to make the team better and balance the roster, right away, I knew they were on the same page as I was”.

The Oilers, a stagnant club for the last few years went through a total face lift this week.

Moving young players, prospects, picks… The Oilers in 2016-17 will have a brand new look.

Some key arrivals at forward include Russian sniper Vladimir Tarasenko, 25 year old left winger Ondrej Palat, 20 year old scorer Anthony Duclair and hometown hero Bryan Little.

Little being the most interesting acquisition since he does become a UFA after this season. The Edmonton native is very excited to play in his hometown and Nellis has made it clear that they have every intention on signing Little next summer “Bryan would be the ideal centerman to have around our club. His contract does expire next summer, but this gives us one season in order to discuss with him becoming our long term option at Center… and I honestly believe it will work out… our fans should be excited!”

How do you gather so many good young forwards, unfortunetly, it cost some young blueliners. Rielly, Maatta and McCabe were all traded. Aaron Eklbad and Darnell Nurse will be remaining with the team, new additions Erik Gudbranson, Dmitry Kulikov and Chris Wideman will be part of the d-corps for years to come.

As for picks and prospects, Nellis did a total overhaul. 3 key forward prospects were added in trades, Jimmy Vesey, Brendan Perlini and Michael McCarron. “When I started scouting teams who were interested in our organization, these were 3 names I had circled. I am confident all 3 can have an impact on our club in different aspects needed to win championships. Vesey more offensive ,Perlini more of a big scoring winger and finally McCarron which can be used on the 3rd line with his huge size and grit”.

Finally, the 2016 draft will also give Nellis a chance to put his stamp on the club drafting 7th , 13th and 14th overall. The only club holding 3 picks in the top 15. Should be very interesting on how Nellis uses these picks to build the prospect pool.

for TSN, in Edmonton
Ryan Rishaug