Oilers' prospect considered controversial by top NHL analyst

This was not always the case, however, as until recently, Clattenburg did not even rank in the top-20 of Oiler prospects, according to most NHL analysts and scouts.

Insider and hockey writer David Staples, in a recent publication, called Connor Clattenburg a bashing brute because of how the big center has been evaluated in the media.

Of course, 'bashing' does fit his job description. At 6'4" and 205-pounds Connor's biggest assets are his hard-charging, aggressive and physical style of play, a grinder that doesn't quit. It's a style that Oiler's management appreciates.

Clattenburg was signed by the Oilers to a 3-year Entry Level contract, of which he is entering his first year when the 2025-26 season begins.

David Staples compares Connor Cluttenburg to former-Oilers Kelly Buchberger, Zach Kassian, NHLers like AJ Greer, who've played a hard-hitting, aggressive style.

Says analyst Bruce Curlock: «When Clattenburg was selected in the 5th round, I thought the pick was a reach. He was in his third year of eligibility and had not shown much offensively. No question Clattenburg has good size and great skating ability. He's also tough as nails. None of this added up to a 5th round pick. However, the Oilers took their shot on Clattenburg and he went back to work for his third OHL season. So what happened? Well there were hints that Connor Clattenburg might have some capability that had not previously been on display. Clattenburg started to find his way offensively this season. Most of it came off his skating ability The puck skills are average, but he makes up for it using his size and speed to beat players on the edge of their body position.»