A surprising former Edmonton Oilers defender has recently been gifted a golden opportunity.
A surprising former Edmonton Oilers defender has recently been gifted a golden opportunity.
EDMONTON -- You never have to get ready if you stay ready.
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Many motivational speakers preach this mantra. It's certainly true because it emphasizes the process, preparation, and focusing on what you can control.
For journeyman defender (and former Edmonton Oilers product) Jordan Oesterle, he's had to embody this.
And now, in his 11th season of playing NHL games, the 32-year-old has found himself with an opportunity he'd be a fool to squander. Currently playing for the Boston Bruins, he has found himself paired up with Charlie McAvoy for the past few games.
Oesterle has only played five games this year but has quickly ascended the depth chart. In those five games, he has spent 65.7% of his time on the ice paired with McAvoy. He is averaging 18:02 of time on ice per game so far.
While this is obviously a small sample size, the coaching staff in Boston clearly values what Oesterle brings to his pairing. It's not easy for most players to be paired with the top performers on a team, and the fact that he has fit in seamlessly only helps his cause.
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On July 1st, he signed a two-year deal with the Bruins valued at $775,000 per season. He was brought in to provide depth to the team, so his ascension is a welcomed surprise.
With the recent coaching change, this situation should be monitored to see if Oesterle can maintain his current deployment.
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