At practice yesterday, the Edmonton Oilers announced that forward Mattias Janmark will be out day to day with injury, which will force some interesting roster moves.
According to a recent article from insider Jason Gregor for Oilers Nation, the Oilers organization may be signing a forward to another AHL tryout contract, and re-calling Noah Philp back to the Oilers.
"If [Janmark] isn't ready for Saturday, then they will have to recall Philp or Caggiula who are in BC as the Condors play Abbotsford Saturday and Sunday, but recalling one of them leaves Bakersfield shorthanded. I won't be surprised if they look to sign another forward to a PTO."
- Jason Gregor, Oilers Nation
The Oilers AHL system is actually enduring an injury crisis at the moment with many forwards unavailable to play. Noah Philp and Drake Caggiula both had to play for the Condors just days after being sent down. If the Oilers recall Philp as expected, they may need another body in the AHL. Earlier this week, the Oilers signed former first round pick Brayden Tracey to a tryout contract.
Philp has shown he can handle Janmark's fourth line and penalty killing responsibilities in his first few games in the NHL, and he deserves a longer look at the highest level. If Janmark is just out for a few days, it may be a good opportunity for himself to bounce back after a tough start to the season, and of course for Philp to get ice time.
We'll have to see tomorrow night what the Oilers decide to do against the rival Vancouver Canucks, while also in desperate need of a win. After last game's meltdown loss to the Vegas Golden Knights, Edmonton needs to have a much better effort and find some consistency to build upon.
