The search for quality prospects at a critical time
The Oilers are going to need quality NHLers to come out of late rounds and college signings, in order to continue to fill out the roster with young and cheap players as they enter an era where Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, Evan Bouchard, and others will come due for big-time raises.
They sadly missed out on drafting Benning in a year when they traded their second and third round picks, but they can help make up for their shortcomings by drafting and signing players that are taking strides in their development like Bookman is.
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It’s possible that we see top organisation prospects traded for upgrades on the current roster at various positions during the coming year. This could create an even stronger demand for the Oilers to source out quality prospects where other teams have missed or given up on them. (See Benning.)
It would be smart of CEO Jeff Jackson and Holland to take a look at this teammate of strongly-developing late-round draft pick Copponi, and consider offering Bookman an AHL contract heading into next season.
"I'm continuing to fall in love with the game more & more & just enjoying it. I love the game of hockey."
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) July 5, 2023
2023 seventh-round pick Matt Copponi talks about his whirlwind week being drafted by the #Oilers & taking part in Development Camp. @FordCanada | #LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/qYjVTSptV7
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