Edmonton Oilers: Bakersfield Condors Sign Joel Rechlicz

The Bakersfield Condors, the AHL-affilate of the Edmonton Oilers, have signed right winger Joel Rechlicz, who will surely bring size and toughness to the team.

More from Bakersfield Condors

• A Visit To The Edmonton Oilers Farm Team
• The Edmonton Oilers Plan For The Trade Deadline
• Edmonton Oilers Prospect Update: Forward Carter Savoie
• Oilers: Ryan McLeod becomes the 17th Condor to make his NHL debut
• Edmonton Oilers: Puljujarvi and Yamamoto Add Fire Power to the Condors

The 6-foot-4, 220 pound forward is known as a bruiser in both the NHL and AHL. He’s played in 26 NHL games with the Washington Capitals and the New York Islanders, posting a single assist, a minus-3 rating and 105 PIM.

His AHL experience also reflects minimal offensive ability, but plenty of toughness. In 219 AHL games, Rechlicz has racked up seven points (four goals, three assists) and 981 PIM, as well as 85 fights. Overall, he is a known fighter who can add toughness to the lineup, and provide physicality and defensive ability.

"“Has tremendous size and the ability to play the enforcer role, especially at lower levels. Can be an effective force along the boards, as well. Likes to intimidate opponents.” – The Hockey News"

Many are curious as to why the Condors signed him, but in the end, it’s a solid deal. Rechlicz can stand up for his teammates and change the tone of the game. He is definitely somewhat comparable to Zack Kassian, though Kassian possesses strong hockey skills, as well as toughness.

Next: Edmonton Oilers Offer Gryba a PTO

Overall, the 29-year-old is a depth enforcer, and although he lacks overall skills when it comes to skating and puck-movement, as well as offense, he is a strong enforcer to have in the lineup. He is a rough-and-tumble guy who can play well at the lower levels and slot into the role of an enforcer. A strong pick-up for the Condors.