After a long off-season the Oilers are excited to begin the 2005 2006 CPHL season. After recent rookie camps and our main camp have concluded. We would like to announce our starting line-up to begin the season vs the Sharks.
Forwards – Vinny, Hossa, Samsonov, Morozov, Doan, Roberts (IR), along with the youth of Zherdev, Bergeron, Weiss, Plekanec, Pouliot, Upshall (call up) and Rocky Thompson along for the ride.
Defense – Rachunek, Leetch, Poti, youngsters Bouwmeester and Malec. And our captain Mr. Roman Hamrlik.
Goal – the legend Martin Brodeur, and Caron will play back up role.
The Oil opened the season as the youngest Howe conference team, not necessarily a good stat for a team capable of making a cup run, so we can expect some leadership to be added as the season progresses.
The key to our success this year is in the nets. We expect Mr. Brodeur to shine in about 60+ games this year for us. Leaving 20 games for Caron and Emery to gain some playing experience.
At forward we believe we have a good scoring balance at the top three lines. With a strong power play line of Vinny, Samsonov, and Hossa. But time will tell the story. Our speed, puck control and goal scoring ability were areas we tried to improve upon this off-season. Not only are some of our forwards top players today, but also should get better with time, as most of them are in their early 20’s.
On the blue line we have the same core as last season, tons of offensive talent, but still missing the defensive specialist we wish to acquire.
The Rexall Place renovations have been completed. Removing all that crap the last GM left in place. All previous banners, statues any memorabilia has been burned and put to rest……. yes even the 99 banner right into the dumpster where it belongs.
The Oil are looking forward to the CPHL’s 4th season with visions of a Stanley Cup run.
It all starts tonight with a divisional home ‘n home series with the Sharks.. Sushi on the menu this week-end.
