Oilers President Jeff Jackson Grades Offseason Free Agent and Trade Additions
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Photo credit: Sportsnet
The Edmonton Oilers made several big additions this offseason only under the guidance of President Jeff Jackson, and now he sat down to grade the team's new additions.
Edmonton lost some big players like Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway, but added some cheaper players like Vasili Podkolzin, Ty Emberson, and more that are providing great value.
Speaking to Pierre LeBrun of the Athletic, Oilers president Jeff Jackson specifically mentioned those two young players as some incredible contributors this year, specifically mentioning the work ethic and underrated success of Podkolzin.
»Podzy is a really good player, and we were fortunate to be able to acquire him. Rick Pracey was a big fan of his in his draft year, and so we got Podzy. It's worked out really well. Leon loves playing with him. He prolongs possession in the offensive zone, he works hard every day and he's going to get better and better.»
- Jeff Jackson
- Jeff Jackson
Oilers President Jeff Jackson Praises Vasili Podkolzin, Ty Emberson, Jeff Skinner in new interview
The two younger Oilers are becoming fan favourites for their hard-working play, and it's interesting to hear Jackson give Jeff Skinner a vote of confidence too.
Ty Emberson maybe hasn't lived up to the original expectations of breakout season, but he's visibly improved in his time in Edmonton already, and he'll only continue to improve. If Bouchard misses time with injury, Emberson could play on the first pair.
Vasili Podkolzin is becoming a major fan favourite for his dogged work-ethic and great support play alongside Leon Draisaitl.
Podkolzin hasn't scored much considering his deployment, but Leon Draisaitl himself has insisted he's a perfect linemate to have. Podkolzin is often seen as the first player on the ice at practice and the last one off, something that makes a great impression on everyone.
Jeff Skinner only has 5 goals and 11 points in 29 games this season, a big disappointment after fans thought he could score at a 40 goal pace again in Edmonton.
Knoblauch has seemingly put Skinner in his doghouse with only bottom-six minutes, but apparently by Jackson's comments, they may actually like Skinner in that spot and crating offence from the third line.
Jeff Jackson has an incredibly unique situation ship with these select players, whom he acquired before hiring his general manager Stan Bowman.
Thankfully, they've been great players for the Oilers so far, and Podkolzin and Emberson seem to have long futures with the team.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 13 | 118 ANSWERS Oilers President Jeff Jackson Grades Offseason Free Agent and Trade Additions Do you think Jeff Skinner will end this season with the Edmonton Oilers? | ||
| Yes | 77 | 65.3 % |
| No | 38 | 32.2 % |
| See Results | 3 | 2.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
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