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Wednesday, June 20, 2001
Edmonton Oilers
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First-round picks: No. 13 or 19 (Edmonton has the option of switching picks with Boston in 2001 or 2002)
2000-01 record: 39-28-12-3, 93 points (12th overall)
What they need
The Oilers could use more front-line size to go along with Mike Grier and Georges Laraque, as well as
a quality back-up to first-string goaltender Tommy Salo.
In the system
Right wing Michel Riesen (14th overall in '97) had 26 goals and 54 points in 69 games for the Hamilton Bulldogs of the American Hockey League, down from 29 goals and 60 points the season before. Another Bulldog who saw his numbers drop from the season before was center Brian Swanson (free agent signing Aug. '99). The former
Colorado College Tiger had 47 points in 49 games last season after notching 59 points in 1999-2000.
Trying to make his way up the ladder is right wing Brian Urick (114th overall in '96). After a 21-goal, 41-point effort with Tallahassee of the East Coast League in his first professional season, the former Notre Dame winger had 11 goals and 19 points in 50 games at Hamilton last season. Another player who is looking to take the next step is right wing Michael Heinrich (13th overall in '98). After an 86-point season in his final major junior season with Barrie (OHL), Heinrich had
just five goals and 15 points in 73 games at Hamilton last season.
Recent draft history
Edmonton continues to stock up on forwards in the opening round of the draft. Of their nine first round picks over the last seven drafts, the Oilers have chosen eight forwards with defenseman Mathieu Descoteaux (19th overall in '96) being the lone exception.
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