Edmonton Oilers PTO Targets: Casey Bailey

Though the 2017-18 campaign is getting closer each day, the Edmonton Oilers may still have work to do when it comes to addressing their roster.

Edmonton’s current RW depth is enough to get them by if we’re being honest. As long as Leon Draisaitl stays on that top line, the Oilers will have some proven scoring. After him, Jesse Puljujarvi is expected to make a run for the second line, with Jussi Jokinen and Zack Kassian filling out the top six. In addition, players like Ty Rattie and Kailer Yamamoto could also prove their NHL worth.

However, the Oilers may want to add some insurance and sign a player or two to PTOs. While Puljujarvi had a strong year of development in the AHL, it doesn’t mean he will become a top-six forward this season. Not only that, Jokinen’s numbers have been on the decline, and he may not be the right winger Edmonton needs.

Edmonton Oilers

Looking at the available names left on the market, many of them are big-name veterans like Jaromir Jagr and Jarome Iginla. Edmonton, though, may not be interested in these names, due to the team’s younger core and overall speed. In addition to those big-name players, there are younger up-and-comers who pack promise and potential and may bring more to the Oilers lineup. One of them is Casey Bailey, an AHL winger with a lot of upside.

Bailey’s Potential

The 25-year-old winger played seven games with the Ottawa Senators this past season, but couldn’t produce anything at the NHL level. On the other hand, he posted strong totals with the AHL’s Binghamton Senators, posting 21 goals and 37 points through 62 games.

Bailey had an impressive NCAA career with Penn State, where he transitioned and adjusted to the league and averaged over a point per game in his senior year. He entered the NHL as a free agent and the first ever Penn State player to play in the NHL. Since then, he has been trying to show his potential as a solid NHL scorer.

The 6-foot-3, 194-pound winger is a big player on the ice and isn’t afraid to play a strong game at both ends of the ice. He will do whatever it takes to control the puck and is a strong skater. In addition, he makes the most of his opportunities and doesn’t shy away from coming up big, thanks to his offensive acumen. Not only does he have a remarkably accurate shot, but he has great hands and vision, and is a hard-worker.

Though Bailey never got a lot of ice time, nor did he put up strong totals in his short time playing at the NHL level, he would be a solid low-risk try out for Edmonton. He is a fast winger who can keep up with the play and has a dangerous shot,  and more importantly, he is a player that gives effort and determination whenever he’s on the ice.

Next: Is Kailer Yamamoto Being Underestimated?

How He Fits

Edmonton may have Rattie and other AHL players who are trying to make the cut, but Bailey brings different factors to the table. Not only that, it would be interesting to see if a change of scenery and coaching would help him be effective for the OIlers. He possesses a solid frame, and can certainly add bulk and physicality to his game.

Overall, he would be a smart option for the Oilers to consider, especially with them wanting faster players with a knack for offence.