New Oilers goalie receives a surprising early promotion

For those that have been following goalie Daniel Salonen's progression, it's easy to see why they're so excited about this 19-year old prospect.

In the 2021-22 season, Daniel was playing with the Rauman Lukko organization his play so impressive, that he progressed from the U18 to U20, and then to the men's league in no time at all.

Fast forward to 2024-25, playing for his U20 squad, Salonen posted a .933 SV% and a 1.55 GAA in 25 regular season games, with a ridiculous record of 23-1. And in the playoffs, he had a .911 SV% and 2.02 GAA in 11 playoff games.

Daniel won a championship with his U20 club Rauman Lukko recording two shutouts, and a .911 SV% and 2.02 GAA, numbers that at any level command attention.

Yet, he actually improved when the competition became more advanced. Playing against men, Daniel posted a .909 SV% and 2.53 GAA in eight games.

Daniel Salonen will likely continue his development in Finland, playing for Rauman Lukko in Liiga. At 19 years of age, it's a good opportunity to compete at a higher level, though he'll need to fill-out his 6'3″ frame and show how well he can play against grown men.

Yet, given his age and stage of development, it is difficult to project when Daniel will sign with the Edmonton Oilers organization. Clearly, this next year, 2025-26 season, will be critical; his future with the team that drafted him may well depend on it.