Former Oilers first-round pick Kailer Yamamoto's career in danger with no offers
Photo credit: AP
As the NHL offseason progresses, the spotlight turns to former Edmonton Oilers first-round pick Kailer Yamamoto, whose hockey career in North America is now shrouded in uncertainty.
Yamamoto, once a promising young talent, may face the prospect of leaving the NHL behind due to a lack of interest from teams.
Selected by the Edmonton Oilers in the first round of the 2017 NHL Draft, Kailer Yamamoto, standing at 5'8", was part of a wave of undersized forwards making a significant impact. He made an immediate impression with 3 points in 9 games during his debut season. This early success fueled expectations that he would become a key player for the Oilers.
However, Yamamoto's NHL career has not progressed as anticipated. Over the following five seasons, he struggled to establish himself as a consistent offensive force. His best performance came in the 2021-22 season, where he recorded 41 points, but he then saw a decline to 25 points the next season. Subsequently, he was released by the Oilers and signed by the Seattle Kraken.
During his single season with the Kraken, Yamamoto played 59 games and accumulated 16 points. With the current NHL season approaching, he finds himself once again in search of a new team, raising concerns that he might need to consider a move to Europe.
Reports indicate Kailer Yamamoto's future in North America is at risk
As NHL training camps near, teams are finalizing their rosters, and Yamamoto remains without a contract. The situation has led to speculation that he may receive a Player Tryout Contract, which could be his best chance to secure a spot in North America.
Yamamoto's predicament is complicated by a specific NHL rule that limits the number of veterans on AHL rosters. Players with over 260 games of NHL experience, like Yamamoto, are restricted in the AHL, a league intended for player development rather than veteran presence. This regulation has inadvertently hindered young talents like Yamamoto from finding opportunities to revive their careers.
With the possibility of a Player Tryout Contract still on the table, Yamamoto's prospects in North America hang in the balance. If this option does not materialize, he may have to wait for an AHL team to open a veteran spot or consider continuing his career in Europe.
Source: Oilers Daily
Oilers first round pick has career in jeopardy with no interest in free agency
Oilers first round pick has career in jeopardy with no interest in free agency
Source: Hockey DB
Kailer Yamamoto Stats}»
Kailer Yamamoto Stats}»
| POLL | ||
8 AOUT | 62 ANSWERS Former Oilers first-round pick Kailer Yamamoto's career in danger with no offers Would you like to see your team sign Kailer Yamamoto for the 2024-25 NHL season? | ||
| Yes | 31 | 50 % |
| No | 31 | 50 % |
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