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The Edmonton Oilers top prospect will get extra minutes during the pre season while Mattias Ekholm nurses an injury.

Edmonton Oilers' site editor Caleb Kerney talks about Cody Ceci & Brett Kulak's need to improve limiting high danger chances against their goaltenders.

The Edmonton Oilers' pre season is officially underway today. Management and players have been answering questions from the media this morning. From Jack Campbell, Stuart Skinner and Ken Holland all spoke to the media.

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One of the biggest stories surrounding the Oilers this off season is the need to tighten things up defensively. The deadline acquisition of Mattias Ekholm helped immensely at the end of last year - and having him from day one for the 2023-24 season will provide a stabilizing force to the back end.

Mattias Ekholm.Mattias Ekholm.

One slight concern is that Ekholm has some issues with a hip flexor right now. It's not a serious issue, but something the Oilers aren't going to rush with a few weeks left before the start of the regular season. Ekholm will miss the first few days of pre season, with no set time table to return.

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Philip Broberg will be given every opportunity to show the coaching staff and management what he is capable of. At the first captain skates he was paired with Ekholm. I'd expect the same set up once Ekholm is ready for games.

Philip Broberg.Philip Broberg.

The beginning of the pre season is officially underway. The first pre season game is on Sunday September 24th versus the Winnipeg Jets. 

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