Top Oilers prospect may be sent to AHL quickly after start of season

Insider Bob Stauffer previously reported that it's likely both Savoie and Howard start the year on the NHL roster. However, Zach Hyman's return from injury in November will change things.

Judging by Stauffer's report, the Oilers opening night roster will look something like this:

Ike Howard was acquired to quickly enter the Oilers lineup and be a difference-maker, and while he'll get an opportunity as long as Hyman's injured, he hasn't looked entirely ready so far in the preseason.

Howard undoubtedly has the offensive skill to be a scorer in the NHL, but he's got noticeable weaknesses defensively and with his play along the boards.

Matthew Savoie looks much closer to a well-rounded player, coming off a strong year of development in the AHL last year. Howard will get some time with the big club, but he could also use that time honing his game at the pro level.

Out of the players above, Howard is clearly the leading candidate to be sent down to the AHL instead of a veteran bottom 6 player.

An assignment to the minor league should be a good thing for Howard, and he'll return to the team later and much stronger.