Breaking: Edmonton Oilers top prospect set to resume playing next season
The Edmonton Oilers have received exciting news with reports indicating that former promising prospect Noah Philip is poised to rejoin the team for the 2024-25 season.
This revelation, shared by Bob Stauffer during Tuesday’s airing of Oilers Now on 630 CHED, marks a significant turnaround from Philip’s decision to step away from professional hockey in June 2023, as confirmed by Oilers general manager Ken Holland in an interview with The Athletic’s Daniel Nugent-Bowman.
Despite turning down a contract extension from the Oilers at the time to focus on other aspects of his life, Philip’s return to the ice is anticipated by many, especially considering his strong performance with the Bakersfield Condors during the 2022-23 season.
Standing at 6 feet 3 inches and weighing 200 pounds, Philip brings a physical presence to the team and has the potential to become a valuable contributor in the bottom six of the NHL lineup. His initial signing with the Oilers was somewhat serendipitous, as they acquired his rights from the Rangers after they were unable to reach an agreement with him in the 2021 draft.
With notable stints at the University of Alberta and in the WHL, particularly with the Seattle Thunderbirds, Philip’s return to the Oilers organization signals a fresh chapter in his hockey journey.
While the impact of his time away from the game remains to be seen, his decision to return suggests he is in a positive mindset, and he will undoubtedly have the full support of the Oilers community as he works towards solidifying his place in the NHL.