Oilers top prospect officially leaves organization with new contract
The Edmonton Oilers were hoping to sign top prospect Maxim Beryozkin, but instead the young Russian forward will remain in the KHL.
Beryozkin has been ranked as one of the top Oilers prospects in the last two years. Losing him will be a significant blow to the Oilers already weak prospect depth.
Maxim Beryozkin reportedly re-signing in KHL, will not join Edmonton Oilers
According to several KHL sources, Beryozkin is expected to be signing another 1 year contract with Yaroslavl Lokomotiv.
With Beryozkin signing on another year in the KHL, the Edmonton Oilers' NHL rights to signing the player will officially expire. If he decides once again to sign in the NHL, he'll be a full-fledged free agent.
Unfortunately, this is a player the Oilers could've definitely used. At just 23 years old, Beryozkin was considered an NHL ready player with his 242 games of professional experience.
At 6'4 and 211 pounds, Beryozkin used his size and frame with physical play and to battle around the net, but also had the hands and puck skills to bury his chances. In 66 games this year, he scored 42 points and was second on his team in scoring.
Beruozkin would've even been eligible to join the playoffs had he signed with the Oilers over the next few weeks. It's a significant disappointment not to land him.
On the other hand, the Oilers have signed a litany of European and College Free Agents this season. They're finding ways to re-stock the cupboards of young cheap players, and will need to find another after the loss of Beryozkin.
Previously on Oilers Daily
POLL |
MAI 25 | 901 ANSWERS Oilers top prospect officially leaves organization with new contract Do you think the Oilers would've played Beryozkin in this year's playoffs? |
Yes | 212 | 23.5 % |
No way | 689 | 76.5 % |
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