Oilers have been linked to Rangers defenseman
Oilers insider Jim Matheson has sparked an interesting conversation in Oil Country, linking Rangers prospect Matthew Robertson to the Oilers.
As per Liam McCormickof Oilers Daily, Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal brought noted that the New York Rangers waived Matthew Robertson today. Robertson is a promising young defender born and raised in Edmonton, and played 6 years with the Oil Kings. In the AHL's Hartford Wolf Pack, Robertson played just over two seasons under Kris Knoblauch, too.
- Jim Matheson
A towering 6'4 210 pound frame, Dobber Prospects describes Robertson as strong, sizeable defender who protects the puck and plays each shift with purpose. He's borderline impossible to strip of the puck once he has possession due to his ability to spin and protect it. His hands are quick, and he is smart about getting the puck out of his own end with purpose and aim.
With that in mind, a prime opportunity may have just presented itself for the Edmonton Oilers. As per McCormick, Oilers analyst Jonathan Willis also agrees that Robertson stands out from the pack on waivers today as a quality young player worth a flyer. According to Willis, the scouting report on Robertson is that he isn't offensively inclined, but does have the ability to move the puck and be a two-way player. He's also 6'4 and 210 pounds, which can be an asset in clearing the net front.
- Jonathan Willis
The combined factors of Desharnais departure and Josh Brown's disappointment, Matheson suggests that Matthew Robertson is a viable option for the Oilers. His connection with Kris Knoblauch indicates that he's highly coachable, and his familiarity with the city of Edmonton based on his time spent on the Oil Kings makes a lot of sense.
