With the recent call-up of Ike Howard and Quinn Hutson from Bakersfield, analyst Jason Gregor suggests how best to utilize the talented rookies in Edmonton's lineup.
Isaac Howard and Quinn Hutson were both recalled to the Oilers roster today, ahead of their game versus the Flyers tomorrow night.
For Howard, it's his first recall since he was assigned to the Condors in mid-November, where he's been spectacular.
He's scored 10G and 23 points in 16 games and is tied for fifth in the AHL in rookie scoring. His 1.44 point per game pace leads all rookies.
For the other Bakersfield star that is making a name for himself, Quinn, Hutson, this is his second recall in the last two weeks. He's scored 19G and 32 points in 26 games this season in the AHL, Condors players, but all and leads the Condors and all AHL rookies, too.
The have both earned their spot on Edmonton's roster.
With the kind of confidence and production both players enjoy right now, it makes sense to play then alongside other skilled players, as both rookie-forwards seemed poised to contribute to a winning team.
Though the margin in slim, being 1st in the Pacific Division allows the Oilers the option of playing Howard and Hutson in roles they can excel.
The bottom-6 and secondary scoring has been an issue thus far for Edmonton. They may just find that the solution is closer than they think.
If the two Bakersfield stars can do close to what they've done in the AHL, Stan Bowman may just have another gift, or two, under his tree.