Match Overview

In the latest preseason matchup, the Edmonton Oilers rallied to a thrilling 5-4 victory against the Seattle Kraken, showcasing several players making a case for roster spots.

Troy Stecher's Performance

Most notably, veteran defenseman Troy Stecher, 30, seemed to have turned a corner, finally displaying the skills that have allowed him to play nearly 500 games in the NHL. With the Oilers now needing to fill gaps on their right side after the exit of Vinnie Desharnais, Cody Ceci, and Philip Broberg, the stage was set for Stecher to seize his opportunity. He passed the test with flying colors against Seattle, demonstrating speed, strong puck battles, and intelligent defensive play.

Acquisition and Injury Struggles

Stecher was acquired from the Arizona Coyotes last March in a deal that involved a seventh-round pick, but his earlier performances as an Oiler left much to be desired. Injured with a cyst in his ankle, he underwent surgery in the summer, and upon his return to the team on a two-year deal at the league minimum of $787,500, he faced skepticism regarding his potential contributions.

Rising to the Occasion

However, this latest performance reveals that he might have finally regained his form. The game against Seattle could be pivotal for Stecher, positioning him as a potential partner for Brett Kulak as the season opens. If he continues to perform at this level, he may solidify his place on the roster for the long haul.

Other Standout Players

Other Oilers also stood out during the match, showcasing their talents and determination to secure roster spots. Raphael Lavoie had a breakout performance, battling hard for pucks and netting the winning goal with a powerful shot. His efforts earned him the second star of the game, hinting at his readiness for NHL action.

Defensive Contributions

Phil Kemp exhibited both positive and negative moments on the ice, while Ben Gleason showed poise and skill, setting up scoring opportunities and displaying potential as a bottom-pairing NHL defenseman. However, his left-handed shot could be limiting in the current lineup. Noah Philp made an impact by scoring a well-placed goal following a rush, though he inadvertently knocked goalie Calvin Pickard out of the game. This incident could pose problems for the Oilers moving forward.

Goalie Standouts

Meanwhile, Matt Savoie had a quiet start but generated some offense alongside star Connor McDavid, hinting that he may become a more significant contributor as the preseason unfolds. Travis Dermott had a steady performance without major mistakes, proving beneficial for a defenseman, while goalie Olivier Rodrigue filled in effectively after Pickard’s exit, even if he struggled on a couple of goals.

Looking Ahead

As the Oilers gear up for the regular season, players like Stecher are proving that perseverance pays off, and they may just have the depth needed to make a serious playoff push this year. Keep an eye on the camp, as the competition intensifies and players vie for coveted positions in the lineup.