Oilers Send Newly-Acquired Max Jones to AHL Affiliate
The Edmonton Oilers have made a strategic move by loaning forward Max Jones to their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Bakersfield Condors. This decision comes on the heels of a trade with the Boston Bruins, which saw Jones and Trent Frederic change teams. While Jones has had a quiet NHL stint with the Bruins this season, his experience and offensive capabilities could prove invaluable for the Condors, who have been struggling to put the puck in the net.
A Season of Struggles for Max Jones
Max Jones, a 27-year-old forward, has not found the back of the net in seven NHL games with the Boston Bruins this season. Despite his lack of points, Jones brings a wealth of experience to the table, having played in 262 career NHL games with both the Bruins and the Anaheim Ducks, where he recorded 31 goals and 62 points. Jones’s journey to the Oilers is marked by his resilience and adaptability, traits that have seen him bounce back from setbacks in the past. His AHL numbers with the Providence Bruins—13 goals and 21 points in 38 games—show a player who is capable of contributing offensively at a higher level when given the opportunity.
A Promising Prospect from the 2016 Draft
Jones was originally a first-round pick of the Anaheim Ducks in the 2016 NHL Draft, selected 24th overall. His draft history underscores his potential and the high expectations placed on him early in his career. Growing up in Rochester, Michigan, Jones honed his skills on the ice and developed a strong work ethic, which has been evident throughout his professional career. Despite not meeting the initial lofty expectations, he has consistently shown the ability to produce at the AHL level, with 29 goals and 52 points in 89 career AHL games. This track record suggests that he could be a valuable asset for the Bakersfield Condors, helping to address their scoring issues.
Potential Impact on the Bakersfield Condors
The Bakersfield Condors have been grappling with a lack of offensive firepower this season, and the arrival of Max Jones could provide the spark they need. Jones’s versatility and scoring touch, as demonstrated by his AHL performances, could be just what the team requires to boost their goal-scoring capabilities. His presence in the lineup will not only add depth but also offer a confidence boost to his new teammates. The Condors, who are always looking to develop players for the Oilers, will be keen to see Jones’s potential and provide him with the playing time and opportunities he needs to flourish.
Looking Ahead: Jones’s Future with the Oilers
While Jones’s immediate future lies with the Bakersfield Condors, the Oilers have not ruled out the possibility of bringing him back to the NHL roster. The decision to send him down is likely a bid to ensure he gets consistent ice time and continues to develop his game without the pressure of competing at the highest level. If Jones can replicate his AHL success and demonstrate a significant improvement in his offensive output, the Oilers may very well call him back up to the NHL. His performance with the Condors will be closely monitored by the team’s management and coaching staff.
Stay Tuned for More AHL Updates
For fans and hockey enthusiasts, the American Hockey League (AHL) continues to be a crucial developmental ground for many promising young players. To stay informed about the latest news, exclusive interviews, and in-depth breakdowns, make sure to bookmark The Hockey News’ AHL page. This resource provides comprehensive coverage of the league, offering insights into the players and teams that are shaping the future of professional hockey. Whether it’s updates on Max Jones or other rising stars, The Hockey News is your go-to source for all things AHL.
