Top Oilers prospect suddenly trending towards being a bust
Photo credit: Imagn Images
Several reports have circulated of late that question Edmonton's Beau Akey's ability to crack the big-club's lineup in the 2025-26 season; and following his recent play in the Next Gen Showcase, some may be right.
Beau Akey's defensive struggles visible at this years' rookie-showcase
Akey missed most of the 2023-24 season due to shoulder surgery. While he returned strong in 2024-25 with the Barrie Colts, and contributed to Team Canada's World Junior Championship appearance, the missed development time set him back significantly.
Known mostly for his strong skating and offensive abilities, Akey needs to further develop his defensive skills to become a reliable two-way defenseman at the NHL level.
«Talking to the development coaches and all the staff here in Edmonton, Beau Akey said, "they want to see me make the step to being a professional type (harder on pucks), not necessarily the junior type. Being good in all areas.»
Most reports have Akey starting the season with the Bakersfield Condors of the AHL, where he will gain experience playing against men and continue his development in key defensive areas of his game.
While Akey possesses top-four defenseman potential, the Oilers are in a "win-now" phase with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl in their prime. Akey, according to Oilers management, needs a season or two of professional experience before having a realistic chance at a full-time NHL roster.
The Oilers have established defensemen like Evan Bouchard, Darnell Nurse, Mattias Ekholm, and Jake Walman under contract, making it difficult for a young, under-developed prospect to crack the lineup at this year's training camp.
However, all considered, Beau Akey remains one of Edmonton's top prospects. At 20-years old, he still has time enough to develop into at 3rd-pairing D-man.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 16 | 414 ANSWERS Top Oilers prospect suddenly trending towards being a bust Is Beau Akey ready for a spot on the Oilers defensive roster? | ||
| yes | 73 | 17.6 % |
| no | 184 | 44.4 % |
| maybe in a year or two | 157 | 37.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
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