Wrong Time for Edmonton Oilers To Recall Raphael Lavoie
Earlier this week the Edmonton Oilers put Adam Erne on waivers for reassignment to the Bakersfield Condors. Many fans were hoping that the scalding-hot Raphael Lavoie would be the player to fill his spot. Instead, the Oilers brought in NHL veteran Sam Gagner.
In 5 games in the AHL Lavoie has scored 4 goals while adding 3 assists. This is why lots of fans were hoping to have him be called up, in hopes he would help the bottom 6 scoring. The problem is Lavoie isn’t a bottom-six player.
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Lavoie is thriving right now in the AHL. The reason he is doing so well statistically is because he is playing top-line minutes 5v5 and on the powerplay. This is where a player of his skillset belongs and why calling him now would not have been the right choice.
Now I don’t know what the Edmonton Oilers organization said to Lavioe, but I hope they told him the reason Gagner is getting the call up before you is because Lavioe would be completely misused on the 4th line.
I do not doubt in my mind that if a skilled player is to get injured then Lavoie would be the number-one call-up. Just right now his confidence is blowing up. Bringing him into the NHL to play 4th line minutes will only hurt that.
As I said above he is putting up points playing top minutes in the AHL, but if put him on the 4th line on the Oilers he would be playing maybe 8 minutes a night. It is hard to get much done offensively in that time.
Next. Adam Erne clears waivers and awaits another chance with Oilers. dark
The decision to bring in Sam Gagner instead of calling up Raphael Lavoie may have disappointed some fans, but it’s important to consider the player’s skillset and strengths before making any decisions. Lavoie is thriving in the AHL and should continue to gain confidence and develop his game. If and when he is called up to the NHL, it should be for a role that fits his skillset and allows him to reach his full potential.