Tonight marks the last opportunity to impress the Oilers coaching staff

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Finnegan Frost
October 4, 2024 (12:45)

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It's an exciting time to be an Oiler fan - tonight marks the last preseason game before the start of the highly anticipated regular season.

As much as fans are happy the preseason is almost done with, tonight marks the last opportunity for prospects and PTO's to impress head coach Kris Knoblauch and the rest of the Oilers management. It may sound dramatic, but tonight is arguably the most important game for many players careers.

According to Global News, One of the players still vying to earn a spot on the Oilers' blue line is 27-year-old Travis Dermott, a veteran defenceman who has played 329 NHL games for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Vancouver Canucks and Arizona Coyotes.

«They're just building that confidence in me to go out and really show the player I can be and help me reach my potential - which I feel I haven't really been going towards the last few years,» Dermott said.

Another player looking to have another huge performance is Noah Philp. He's been the biggest surprise to emerge out of training camp so far, and his confidence has been growing every shift. The 26 year has shown he's ready, and tonight could be the determining factor for Kris Knoblauch's decision.

Philp has won 59% of his faceoffs. At 5�5, only Connor McDavid has produced more points this preseason. He's used his 6'3″, 205 pound frame very effectively. He skates well, he has a good shot, he plays physical, has shown good defensive awareness and he can penalty kill. He's done everything the Oilers could have asked for, and when they announce their final roster next Monday afternoon, Philp could be on it.

If Philp manages to have his best performance yet, he could threaten Derek Ryan's spot on the Oilers third line at the center position. All eyes will be on Dermott and Philp tonight against the Vancouver Canucks.

source: Global News
Oilers prepare for final pre-season game with decisions still to make ahead of NHL regular season