Brett Kulak had the worst expected goals against per 60, yet many say he was the best Edmonton Oilers defenseman on any given night. What gives? With the waiver deadline set for Monday October 9th, the Edmonton Oilers announced a few cuts earlier today. Four players were put on waivers for the purpose of assignment to the AHL. Brad Malone, Phil Kemp, Cam Dineen and Calvin Pickard will all report to the Bakersfield Condors - should they clear waivers. With those players sent down, there are still four more who need to be cut before Monday's deadline. Here are the four players who I think start the year in the AHL. Related: Babcock Resignation Proves Oilers' Made the Right Call Two forwards need to be eliminated from the roster. Raphael Lavoie, Adam Erne and Lane Pederson are the three players competing for the last spot in the lineup. Raphael Lavoie. [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjAxMzI2OTA3MTQzMjM1NDE2/usatsi_21588385_168401874_lowres.jpg] Raphael Lavoie. All three have had a good camp, which makes the decision difficult. Both Lavoie & Pederson are on two-way deals and can be sent down easily. Erne is on a PTO, so if the Oilers aren't happy with him they can release him. My guess is Pederson gets sent down and Erne is released from his tryout. Ben Gleason. [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjAxMjMzMDc3NDA4NjM4NzQ2/usatsi_21560323_168401874_lowres.jpg] Ben Gleason. Ben Gleason, Vincent Desharnais and Markus Niemelainen are all in contention for the seventh defense position. Despite his excellent showing at camp, my suspicion is that Gleason is sent to the AHL. Niemelainen also seems likely to be sent down, given Desharnais has the leg up on him in experience in the NHL. Related: Former Oiler Forward Released From PTO Related: Oilers Planned a Different Barrie Blockbuster Trade Related: Newly Acquired Oiler Could Be the Final Piece Needed For a Stanley Cup Related: Underrated Oiler Makes a Surprising Appearance at the Biosteel NHL Camp
