Oilers defenseman leaves organization to sign with German team
Photo credit: The New York Times
Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal reported today that Oilers defenseman Markus Niemelainen has decided to sign with Eisbaren Berlin in Germany.
Niemelainen was selected by the Oilers in the 2016 entry draft, 63rd overall. Many felt that he would have great success with the Oilers, but sadly this was not the case as he only played 43 games in his NHL career with a total of 20 games with the Oilers.
It became clear that he was going to be a perennial AHL player and had spent the bulk of his time with the Bakersfield Condors. The notion was that he would be an excellent defensive defenseman as he stands 6 foot 5 and 200 lbs which would give them a physical edge from the back end.
Between the Condors and the Oilers, he played 43 games, with one assist in eight penalty minutes. These numbers are brutal and were expected to be far better.
During those seasons, many felt the Oilers later draft picks were not hitting as often as they should, but the organization has turned the page and are drilling down more onto drafting an to analytics to help build their rosters and their farm club.
Source: OilersNation
The Edmonton Oilers worst non-first round picks: #3 Markus Niemeläinen
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