Top Oilers insider names 5 new players to make opening night roster

A number of young Oilers have impressed through the preseason so far, and they'll have an opportunity to make the NHL roster right away with two notable absences.

According to the new update from Stauffer, all of Matt Savoie, Isaac Howard, David Tomasek, Noah Philp, and Alec Regula will make the roster to start the year.

To begin this year the Oilers will be without Zach Hyman due to injury, and possibly Podkolzin too on leave of absence. That would allow more room to add younger players to start the year.

The Oilers have acquired both Matt Savoie and Isaac Howard as top prospects from other organizations to quickly make an impact in their NHL lineup, and perhaps extend the team's cup contention window.

It's great to hear both players will make the roster to start the year, and can get the opportunity to prove themselves.

David Tomasek has turned heads with his play through the preseason as well, including showing some slick offensive skill.

The 29 year old Czech centreman was signed out of the SHL to a 1 year contract at $1.2M. He's got plenty to prove, but looks like he could become a full time NHLer.

Noah Philp finally making the roster is long overdue after he had a quality showing in 15 games last year. The 26 year old plays a position of need as a right shot centreman, and could take the 4th line job this season.

Alec Regula staying on the roster would be an interesting change of plan for the Oilers. Edmonton already has 7 NHL defenders on their roster, but the team claimed Regula on waivers last year with the hope he could become an impact player. Placing him on waivers now may be a risk they're not comfortable with.

Overall, it looks like the Oilers will be heavily changing their roster philosophy this season to give more room for their young players to grow.