Edmonton Oilers Should Lock Up Chad Butcher

The Edmonton Oilers got an impressive performance from Chad Butcher at the Young Stars Classic in Penticton this past week. Because of this, he is turning heads throughout the organization.

In just three tourney games, Butcher made himself an absolute force, racking up three goals and seven points. He was a huge reason that Edmonton went undefeated for the second straight year, and though big names like Kailer Yamamoto and Joseph Gambardella were also in attendance, he shined the brightest.

Edmonton Oilers

The 21-year-old right winger has spent the last few seasons playing in the WHL for the Medicine Hat Tigers. In 67 games as an alternate captain with the Tigers this past season, he racked up 27 goals and 103 points. He finished his junior career with 82 goals and 259 points in 301 regular season games.

Though he went undrafted, he has been turning heads and recently signed a deal with the Oilers’ AHL affiliate Bakersfield Condors for the 2017-18 campaign. However, given his skill-set and remarkable performance at the rookie tournament, Edmonton should consider locking him up to a contract.

Signing Chad Butcher

First off, he is a proven scorer with outstanding offensive ability. He works wonders with the puck, combining his playmaking ability with a strong, lethal shot. Not only that, he’s the type of player that can get the puck up ice, play a solid two-way game and make his teammates better.

In addition, Butcher has shown his ability to adapt and play at the higher levels and works well under pressure. He is a player that gives full effort each shift, and he leads by example. Having that kind of player in the organization would be greatly beneficial to Edmonton.

Lastly, given the team needs more depth on the right side, and given his experience with the organization, he would be a great addition. He has shined in two straight rookie tournaments for Edmonton, showing his scoring potential and offensive acumen. He would add a lot more insurance on the wing, and he is probably a player that is ready to transition to the NHL sooner rather than later.

Next: Edmonton Oilers: Takeaways from Young Stars Classic

Overall, he put up a good performance in the Young Stars Classic and will likely shine with the Condors this season. He has been turning heads for years now, and it is only a matter of time before the Oilers bring him on board.