Bakersfield Condors who could see NHL action in 2025–26

NHL prospects can have unpredictable seasons. Player development and the circumstances that a team finds itself in can be even more unpredictable. Most AHL players in any given season can find themselves an NHL injury or suspension away from being called up.

With that notion being said let’s take a look at six Edmonton Oilers prospects that could likely find themselves in Alberta’s capital with the big team this upcoming season.

Quinn Hutson, F, (2002)

The former Boston University Terrier had a stellar campaign last season in the NCAA where he posted 50 points across 38 games, good for ninth in all of NCAA scoring in 2024–25. Earning a top-six role and 17:06 of TOI last season, Hutson was a vital part of the stacked Terriers offence.

After the conclusion of Boston University’s national title run, the young American had a line of teams wanting to sign him, but eventually settled on a two-year deal with Edmonton. The forward even earned a spot in lineup for the Oilers final two regular season games.

The young forward is a notable sniper with a smart offensive mindset. Hutsons game is highlighted by quality offensive senses, a notable compete level, and evident puck skills that he displays in his touch and go game.

It’s possible Hutson makes the Oilers out of training camp, but if he doesn’t, expect the American to be one of the first calls up in event of under-performing bottom-six members, or an injury. He could be an asset along the wings of Connor McDavid or Leon Draisaitl, in the same semblance Isaac Howard will be.

Roby Järventie, F, (2002)

The Finnish forward has had a rocky go of it the past couple of years, as the former second-round pick has been frequently injured and missed plenty of time. This could be the season that Järventie finally takes that full step forward, and regains his momentum in terms of player development.

After initially signing in Finland’s Liiga, Järventie decided to re-up with the Oilers after being offered a contract with the NHL organization this offseason. Look for him to be a central piece of the Condors offence this upcoming season, along with the likes of the Oilers other recent signees.

Jarventie’s game is that of an offensive minded sniper, who thrives as a rush attacker. The Finn’s game is highlighted by high end skating mixed in with deceptive shooting, and quality puck skills. He brings a similar skillset to Hutson would to the Oilers, but more of a rush based game.

All things considered he should make his full time debut with another season of development, but his NHL ETA is close, and for that reason it’s likely Oilers fans could see him with the big club this upcoming season.

James Hamblin, F, (1999)

It’s been a long road for the Edmonton product from the WHL’s Medicine Hat Tigers to Hockey Ettan during the COVID-19 season, and now entering his fifth season with Bakersfield. The 26-year-old forward enters this season looking for a NHL chance with his hometown Oilers.

As with the other two forwards, an injury or an under-performing bottom-six forward could provide that for Hamblin.

Hamblin has proven himself in the AHL with 45 points across an injury shortened 51 games last season with the Condors. He could be a capable bottom-six contributor for the big club. The 5’9” forward has even appeared in 41 games with Edmonton across the past five seasons so he’s no stranger.

An NHL highlight for Hamblin remains his feel good first career NHL goal against the Tampa Bay Lightning on November 18, 2023 after the loss of his mother.

Hamblin’s game shows some speed, compete, and grit, all elements that the Oilers could use in their bottom-six with the departure of Evander Kane. Hamblin could be an intriguing option for the Oilers if they need to call a Condors forward up this season.

Damien Carfagna, LD, (2002)

One of the Oilers newest signings from Ohio State in the NCAA. Carfagna had an impressive senior season which saw the American defender post career highs in all offensive categories. The 6’0” defender quickly inked a contract with the Edmonton Oilers.

The Columbus Ohio product looks to make a mark in his first professional season, and first impressions are key. If Carfagna performs well, he could be a darkhorse to either make the Oilers roster as a depth defender, or possibly be one of the first call ups to the big club in the event of an injury.

Carfagna’s game is that of a transitional-two way defender. His game is highlighted by quality senses, puck skills, and a decent enough skating base. He would provide an offensive spark from the Oilers backend, and be capable in his own zone.

It’s not out of the realm of possibilities that Oilers fans see Carfagna in this upcoming season.

Arto Leppänen, LD, (1998)

The Finnish defender had a highlight reel of a season. Leppänen set the Liiga record in points by a defender, repersented Finland for the first time at the World Championship, and earned himself an NHL contract.

Leppänen’s game is that of an offensive minded defender, who can generate pressure and find the net. The Finn’s game is highlighted by strong offensive senses, some puck skill, and capable enough skating. Much to the tune of Carfagna, Leppänen could be an offensive spark plug for the Oilers.

Pro-scouts wont likely bring in a player the age of Leppänen, if they don’t see their fit in the NHL system. With that being said it would be surprising if the 6’0” Finn doesn’t see at least a handful of games with the Oilers this upcoming season.

Samuel Jonsson, G, (2001)

The Allsvenskan Goaltender of the Year is now headed over to North America, and will likely appear in a Condors jersey for this upcoming season, as he further refines his game. In a crowded goaltending pipeline, for the Oilers Jonsson stands out as the highest potential of the group.

Working with new goalie coach, Peter Aubry, should move Jonsson’s development along and on track for NHL games. Ideally the young Swede won’t be rushed to develop, but in an event of an injury to either Oilers goaltender, expect Jonsson to be the likely call up.

With a 6’5” frame, decent enough agility, and good play reading senses Jonsson has everything that NHL teams look for in a goalie. His mobility is one area that needs some growth. All things considered Jonsson could get the job done at the NHL level this upcoming season if need be.

Don’t expect him to be around long with the big team though as the big Swede still needs plenty more development at the AHL level before he could comfortably compete for an NHL spot.

For a game or two?

Sure why not.

The Condors have a plethora of NHL depth level talent. This means that the Condors will have plenty of complimentary pieces for the Oilers to pick from, and this is one of the strongest parts of the Oilers signing and development strategy.