Oilers organization looks to be moving off from hometown prospect after tryout

Philp was a major story for the Oilers in training camp this season as the 26 year old came out of retirement and impressed the front office with his mature game.

According to a recent observation from Oilers prospect expert Bruce Curlock, Philp's usage in the last few weeks in the AHL indicates he isn't in the team's plans moving forward.

Philp being bumped down to the third line of the AHL surely isn't an encouraging sign for how the organization views him. Playing behind the veteran Derek Ryan is a sign that Philp is literally behind him in the depth chart.

Compared to Matt Savoie or any other player called up this season, the Oilers have Noah Philp the longest opportunity for an in-season tryout. Curlock still believes he should be with the Oilers, despite them appearing to move on.

Philp was called up to play 9 games - which is significantly more than Matthew Savoie, but Philp often played 8 minutes of ice time or less.

There should still be hope that Philp can be an NHL player. He has the size, speed, and mature defensive game to be a solid fourth line center. The fact that he could arguably fill that role better than Kapanen, at least defensively, suggests the Oilers just aren't interested in Philp.

As a kid from Alberta with a fantastic story of perseverance to resurrect his hockey career, Philp deserves a load of respect for his efforts this year. Hopefully in training camp next season, he makes it impossible for the front office to cut him from the team.