Significant return for Oilers prospect Beau Akey

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Sam Jones
August 12, 2024 (4:26 PM)

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In a promising development for the Edmonton Oilers, prospect Beau Akey is set to make a significant return to the ice after a challenging shoulder injury sidelined him for nearly the entire previous season.

Drafted in the second round of the 2023 NHL Draft, Akey's early impressions at the Oilers' training camp showcased his potential, quickly earning him a three-year entry-level contract. However, his promising start was abruptly paused due to a shoulder injury after just 14 games with the OHL's Barrie Colts.

Standing six feet tall, Akey's right-handed defense is a notable asset, but it's his comprehensive skill set that truly highlights his promise. Described as a smooth skater, Akey exhibits both poise and confidence in his playmaking abilities, particularly noted for his sharp, crisp passing. His defensive skills are also commendable and suggest that he could evolve into a significant player for the NHL in the forthcoming years.

Recently ranked as the fifth-best prospect in the Oilers system by Bob Stauffer, Akey's potential continues to draw attention. His recent quote from an interview on NHL.com reveals his mental resilience and gratitude for the recovery period:

"It was tough mentally to be removed from the game for so long, but I'm grateful for the full opportunity to heal a number of minor injuries as well," Akey reflected on his time away from the ice.

During his recovery, Akey adopted a coach-like approach to studying the game, a strategy that could enhance his performance as he transitions back into active play. The Oilers' Director of Scouting, Rick Pracey, remains optimistic about Akey's future, particularly his offensive capabilities.

"We'll see where his offensive game goes. We think there is offensive potential and offensive upside even at the highest level," Pracey noted, emphasizing the organization's high expectations for Akey.

With the off-ice development camp behind him, Akey is eager to resume on-ice activities and demonstrate the growth resulting from his extensive preparation during the offseason. His forthcoming participation in the Oilers' training camp will be a critical time for him to reaffirm his capabilities and continue his trajectory toward becoming an impactful NHL player.

Source: NHL.com
Oilers willing to be patient with Akey after shoulder surgery