Former Oilers Prospect Olivier Rodrigue Signs with KHL’s HC Barys
– In a significant move, the Edmonton Oilers’ former goalie prospect, Olivier Rodrigue, has reportedly inked a deal with HC Barys of the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). The signing was first announced by TSN
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Ex-Edmonton Oilers G Olivier Rodrigue signs with KHL’s HC Barys“
Rodrigue’s Journey in the NHL
Rodrigue, a former second-round pick by the Oilers in the 2018 NHL Draft, spent parts of the last two seasons with the team, appearing in five games and posting a 3-2-0 record with a .876 save percentage. The Oilers organization decided not to tender him a qualifying offer this offseason, making him an unrestricted free agent.
New Chapter in the KHL
Now, the 22-year-old netminder begins a new chapter in his professional career with HC Barys. The Nur-Sultan-based club is one of the KHL’s founding members and a consistent playoff contender. Rodrigue will join a goaltending corps that includes veteran Mike Condon and youngster Alexey Melnichuk, with the team’s general manager, Vladimir Kryukov, expressing confidence in Rodrigue’s potential:
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We’re excited to add Olivier to our team. He’s a young, talented goaltender with a bright future, and we believe he can compete at the KHL level.“
The Impact on the Oilers
The Oilers, meanwhile, continue to revamp their goaltending situation. With Mike Smith re-signing and Stuart Skinner showing promise, Rodrigue’s departure allows more opportunities for younger prospects to emerge. General Manager Ken Holland commented on the situation:
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Olivier’s departure opens the door for our other young goalies to step up. We wish him all the best in the KHL.“
FAQ
- What team did Olivier Rodrigue play for before signing with HC Barys? He previously played for the Edmonton Oilers.
- Why did Rodrigue leave the NHL? The Oilers did not tender him a qualifying offer, making him an unrestricted free agent.
- What does this signing mean for the Oilers? It creates more opportunities for younger goalie prospects within the organization.
Did you know? Rodrigue is one of many young goalies taking their talents to the KHL, following in the footsteps of players like Ilya Sorokin and Igor Shesterkin, who have since returned to the NHL.
Stay tuned to 247sports.news for more updates on the Edmonton Oilers and the Kontinental Hockey League. Don’t forget to like and share this article!