The Athletic explains why the Edmonton Oilers should sign Ty Emberson right away.
As the NHL continues to evolve, one thing is certain: teams must be proactive in building a balanced, dynamic roster that can withstand the challenges of a long season and excel in the playoffs. For a team like the Edmonton Oilers, whose ambitions are set on winning the Stanley Cup, roster depth, particularly on defense, is of utmost importance. The Oilers, despite having one of the best offenses in the NHL, have often struggled with defensive consistency and depth. To address this concern, signing Ty Emberson, a promising young defenseman, could be a crucial move for the franchise as they continue to build for the future.
Ty Emberson: A Rising Star with Impressive Potential
Ty Emberson, a defenseman known for his all-around game, has been a standout player in the NCAA and a highly regarded prospect for several seasons. His blend of size, mobility, and defensive acumen makes him a rare commodity, and his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively will be vital for a team like the Edmonton Oilers that is looking to improve its blue line. While he may not yet have the star power or recognition of players like Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl, Emberson’s potential to make a significant impact is undeniable.
Emberson, standing at 6’1” and weighing around 205 pounds, brings an ideal combination of physicality and skill to the table. He is a left-handed shot who can play both ends of the ice effectively. Whether it’s blocking shots, handling the puck under pressure, or making the quick, smart plays that break up offensive attacks, Emberson has proven himself to be a reliable and versatile defenseman in his time at the University of Wisconsin. His game has evolved significantly over the years, and with the right coaching and development, he has the potential to become an integral part of an NHL team.
Defensive Depth and the Oilers’ Current Needs
The Edmonton Oilers have long been a team that has relied heavily on their offensive prowess to win games. With McDavid and Draisaitl leading the charge, the team has a potent attack capable of scoring at will. However, the defensive side of the puck has often been a weak link in their quest for a championship. While the Oilers have made strides in recent years, particularly with the acquisition of veteran defensemen like Darnell Nurse and Cody Ceci, the overall depth on defense still needs to improve.
In the 2021-2022 season, the Oilers ranked 21st in the league in goals against per game, and their power play and penalty kill numbers have fluctuated. With McDavid and Draisaitl pulling the weight on the offensive end, the defensive issues have become more apparent. A reliable, steady defenseman like Emberson could be exactly what the Oilers need to bolster their blue line and provide much-needed depth to their roster.
Ty Emberson offers a unique skill set that aligns with the Oilers’ current needs. His ability to step in and contribute immediately, especially in a defensive pairing role, could bring balance to a team that too often leans heavily on their forwards to get things done. Emberson’s style of play is well-suited for the Oilers’ system, which focuses on a fast-paced, transition-heavy game.
The Fit with the Oilers’ Current Roster
At first glance, Ty Emberson may seem like a more long-term project for the Oilers, especially considering his age and experience level. However, there are several compelling reasons why the Oilers should seriously consider adding Emberson to their roster right now, even if his primary role in the short term is to develop and provide depth.
- A Physical Presence: One of the key attributes that Emberson brings to the table is his physicality. In today’s NHL, having a defenseman who can play with grit and assertiveness is invaluable. While the Oilers have defensemen who can contribute offensively, such as Tyson Barrie and Nurse, they still need someone who can play a heavy, reliable defensive game, especially in the playoffs. Emberson has the potential to step into that role with ease, providing physicality and protection around the crease.
- Two-Way Potential: Unlike many young defensemen, Emberson has the ability to contribute at both ends of the ice. While his primary focus is defense, he has shown the capability to chip in offensively, using his vision and smart decision-making to make accurate passes and join the rush when necessary. The Oilers, known for their high-flying offensive style, would benefit from having a defenseman who can support the attack when needed, and Emberson’s ability to transition quickly between defense and offense fits this style perfectly.
- A Player with Experience at the NCAA Level: Emberson’s time in the NCAA, where he played for the University of Wisconsin, provided him with extensive high-level hockey experience. He is no stranger to the intense pressure of competitive play, and this experience has honed his skills in ways that would allow him to step into the NHL with confidence. The transition from the NCAA to the NHL is often a difficult one for young players, but Emberson’s poise and maturity make him an ideal candidate to make that leap.
- A Low-Risk Investment: While the Oilers have other needs, signing a player like Emberson represents a relatively low-risk move with high potential reward. Given that he is still on the younger side of his career, Emberson can be brought in on a relatively affordable deal with the possibility of him evolving into a key contributor down the road. His relatively low profile compared to high-priced veterans makes him an appealing choice for a team looking to improve its depth without significant financial commitment.
- A Chance to Learn from Veterans: If Emberson were to join the Oilers, he would have the opportunity to learn from some of the league’s best defensemen. Working alongside veterans like Darnell Nurse, Cody Ceci, and Tyson Barrie would help Emberson develop his game in a professional setting. This mentorship would be vital for his long-term growth and would help him acclimate to the pace of NHL play.
Why Emberson Would Be a Great Fit for Edmonton’s Culture
The Edmonton Oilers have long had a history of fostering young talent and allowing their top prospects to grow within the system. Players like McDavid and Leon Draisaitl have set the standard for what it takes to succeed in Edmonton, and the team has consistently shown a willingness to develop and nurture their young players. Emberson’s personality and work ethic would fit seamlessly into this culture.
Emberson is known for his commitment to improving and his ability to adapt to new situations. His leadership qualities have also been praised, with coaches and teammates noting his ability to rally others and set an example both on and off the ice. These traits would make him a valuable addition to an Oilers team that is looking to take the next step in its development.
Additionally, Emberson’s blue-collar mentality aligns with the culture of the Oilers’ fanbase, who appreciate hard work and dedication. The team and its supporters would embrace Emberson’s style of play, and his presence on the roster would add an extra layer of grit and determination to an already talented squad.
The Long-Term Vision for Emberson and the Oilers
While signing Ty Emberson might not immediately solve all of the Oilers’ defensive woes, it is a step in the right direction for the future. The Oilers are a team that is built around its stars, and the contributions of players like McDavid and Draisaitl have made them one of the most exciting teams to watch in the NHL. However, for the Oilers to truly contend for the Stanley Cup, they need to build a more well-rounded team with depth in all areas, including defense.
By signing Emberson, the Oilers not only improve their defense in the short term, but they also gain a young, talented player who can contribute for years to come. Emberson has the tools to become a top-four defenseman in the NHL, and with the right development, he could play a pivotal role in helping the Oilers win their first Stanley Cup in over two decades.
