Analyst believes Oilers prospect will refuse to sign contract with team

Philp began turning heads in Oilers training camp this season when he came out of retirement at 26 years old to make a real bid to make the team.

The Oilers prospect was brought up for a trial run mid season, but barely played before he was sent back down to the AHL. Now with the Condors, Philp is tearing up the league, but is really no closer to earning a call up to the Oilers.

According to Curlock, the lack of opportunity may drive Philp to another team.

Philp has been on a scoring kick in the AHL recently, now getting up to 15 goals and 27 points in 48 games - almost all at even strength. There could be a chance Philp is more than just a defensive 4th liner, but he may be being squeezed into a role.

Recently, Philp's game has picked up significantly to catch Curlock's attention. If he continues this level of play, along with his call up earlier this year, he'll attract the attention of other NHL teams.

Philp is currently signed to a one-year, $775K contract. It's obviously still possible the Oilers make a push to keep their homegrown prospect, but if he's coming out of retirement to pursue his hockey dream, taking a contract elsewhere for an NHL opportunity makes sense - maybe even with the Calgary Flames.

He's made enough significant strides this season in his first back from retirement for the Oilers to justify re-signing Philp. Hopefully management can get him back this offseason, and into the NHL full time next season.