Everyone loves a underdog, whether in general or with sports specifically. As such, if you're a fan of the Edmonton Oilers organisation, you should be rooting for Cameron Wright.
Undrafted after four seasons at Bowling Green State University -- as well as one season at the University of Denver -- Wright has worked hard to make a career for himself playing hockey. And now, his perseverance appears to finally be paying off.
As announced on their official website, the Bakersfield Condors have signed Wright to a one-year deal for the 2024-25 campaign. This is just reward for the 25-year-old, who had an excellent first season with the Condors.
Wright originally joined the Fort Wayne Comets following a tryout prior to last season. However, after just four games with the Oilers' ECHL affiliate, he was called up to the Condors.
Wright proves he belongs
The winger went on to show he belonged, as he led all Condors rookies with 21 points in 48 games during the 2023-24 campaign. (He was technically a rookie, after only playing two AHL games a season earlier, with the Colorado Eagles.)
To give even more context to how effective Wright was for the Condors, consider that he finished fourth on the team with a +9 rating. He also proved to be an aggressive player, as evidenced by being one of just five players to reach 100 shots during the season, with 103.
In one respect, because of his age Wright is unlikely to develop much more. At the same time however, his undeniable work ethic and self belief, mark him as a player who will continue to be an extremely useful asset for coach Colin Chaulk and the Condors.
Overall, Wright's story is one that offers hope to aspiring hockey players everywhere. The Newmarket, Ontario native had a dream and he went after it wholeheartedly, and despite the odds being against him, he will continue to aspire to make it to the NHL.