Edmonton Oilers face critical decision with prospect after coming out of retirement
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The Edmonton Oilers may have to make a critical decision on Noah Philp, a 26 year old NHL-ready who recently came out of retirement.
The Oilers have added a slew of new depth players this season, which may threaten Philp's opportunities in the lineup. His future with the Oilers could be decided shortly after a showing in preseason this year.
Oilers face critical decision with prospect Noah Philp in training camp this season
Oilers prospect analyst Bruce Curlock has been bullish on Philp's game translating to the NHL, with potential to develop into a quality 4th line center for a championship team.
When Philp played at 5v5, his expected goal share was very high at 55.64% as per Natural Stat Trick.
I think the team has the ability to protect Noah Philp while allowing him to determine his NHL career path. Whether they do that will be found out over the next eight weeks. If Philp doesn't make the Oilers, don't be surprised if another team takes one last look.
- Bruce Curlock
I think the team has the ability to protect Noah Philp while allowing him to determine his NHL career path. Whether they do that will be found out over the next eight weeks. If Philp doesn't make the Oilers, don't be surprised if another team takes one last look.
- Bruce Curlock
Philp had a very interesting trajectory as an undrafted player who made a name for himself at the University of Alberta. After signing with the Oilers and playing one strong season in the AHL, Philp retired.
Upon his return last season, Philp got started in the AHL again and was later called up to play 15 games with the Oilers where he showed promising results in limited minutes. Even in the AHL, his scoring rates rose significantly to 35 points in 55 games.
He's a quality defensive player and a positional asset as a right shot centreman, who can bring some offence too. It's a player type the Oilers need on their 4th line - but Philp is still stuck behind veterans like Adam Henrique, Mattias Janmark, David Tomasek, and Curtis Lazar.
If Philp doesn't find a role in the NHL during training camp this season, it's very possible that another team would take a look at adding him - or he could perhaps step away from the game once again.
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