July Roster Additions: What To Expect

With training camp approaching soon I thought I would shed some light on the new faces that will be in our lineup for the upcoming season. On July 1st we picked up Dick Tarnstrom, Joni Pitkanen, and Geoff Sanderson. I was so happy to hear about the signing of these players, especially Joni Pitkanen as he will help our powerplay immensely, which struggled so badly last year. Dick Tarnstrom is also a solid defensemen who will add some consistency to our blueline, as well as put up a few needed points, and last but not least, Geoff Sanderson to add some depth and experience to our lineup. On July 3rd we picked up Mathieu Garon. In Garon we pick up a solid backup goalie, and if Roloson starts to struggle he could fight for a starting position. On July 12th I know all of us were jumping up and down as we heard of the signing of Sheldon Souray, what a pick up that was. As a member of the Montreal Canadians last year Sheldon posted 64 points which put him in 3rd for defensmen in the league. No one knew how things were gonna be on our blueline after Jason Smith was traded to Philadelpia, but with these July additions of Pitkanen and Souray our defensive needs were satisfied.

And now for our future prospects. On July 17th the Oilers agreed to terms with right wing Colin McDonald on a two-year entry level contract and have also agreed to one-year terms with left wing Ryan Flinn, defenceman T.J. Kemp and defencemen T.J. Reynolds.
McDonald, who the Oilers drafted 51st overall in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft, played four years with the NCAA’s Providence College Friars, leading the Friars with a career-high 13 goals last season. Flinn is entering his 7th professional season and should add some toughness to the lineup with his 6'5" 230 lb frame. Kemp, who played with the Manchester Monarchs posted career highs in assists with 33, points with 38, and penalty minutes 56 in 65 games.