Edmonton Oilers: Ryan McLeod gets the big call-up to boost offense
It’s no secret that when everything is clicking with the Edmonton Oilers offensively, they can truly be a force to reckon with. They’ve been doing very well as of late as at this point in time, they share 2nd place in the North Division with hopes of securing that top spot to get home-field advantage in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Of course, lots of important decisions need to be made between now and the end of the regular season which is approaching quickly. Before you know it, the Oilers will be gearing up to see how far they can push the envelope in the postseason. Making smart call-ups now from their AHL team can be the difference in how deep they can advance in the playoffs when it matters most.
As per David Staples of the Edmonton Journal, he confirmed that Oilers head coach Dave Tippet has indeed called up center Ryan McLeod. He will be making his NHL debut on Monday against the Winnipeg Jets and likely see some minutes on ice. This comes at the perfect time as he can get acclimated to life in the pros and give the coaching regime a good look at everything he can bring to the table.
The Edmonton Oilers made the right decision calling up Ryan McLeod
A 2nd Round draft pick of the Oilers in the 2018 NHL Draft, McLeod is all about speed, precision, and the ability to make clutch offensive plays once he’s around the puck. He’s been doing very well so far this season on the Bakersfield Condors as he’s scored 28 points, including four game-winning goals. While expectations should be low as McLeod got his big call-up on Monday, one can’t help but get excited about the possibilities.
Perhaps McLeod can add his style of play to an already strong offensive team in the Oilers and who knows, could help in the depth department at center. McLeod will obviously need to be eased into things which is important as he shouldn’t be rushed into scenarios against first or second lines just yet until he’s truly ready.
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Overall, the Oilers made the right decision in calling up McLeod as here’s to him coming in, learning, progressing, and eventually, start taking care of business. Nothing would add more excitement or a surge of energy to a team that has continued to impress all season long than a young call-up that ends up being a big contributor down the road.