The Edmonton Oilers' upcoming season is shaping up to be an intriguing one, with a key question lingering: who will fill the sixth defenseman spot? With a mix of established players and promising prospects, the team has a challenging decision to make.
Ty Emberson, acquired from the San Jose Sharks, has been a consistent performer on the third pair. His defensive prowess is evident through EvolvingHockey's WAR model, which rates his impact as outstanding. Emberson excels in in-zone defense, boxing out opponents and limiting turnovers. His penalty-kill performance is also notable, as he led Edmonton's defenders in PK TOI in the 2024-25 season, showcasing his reliability in high-pressure situations.
Shakir Mukhamadullin, a 24-year-old with good mobility and a respectable shot, is another intriguing option. His defensive skills are impressive, with EvolvingHockey's model rating his even-strength impact in the 82nd percentile. However, his puck retrieval under forecheck pressure is a concern, and his passing needs improvement. Mukhamadullin's potential is clear, but he requires a more stable environment to showcase his abilities.
Spencer Stastney, a fast and mobile player, brings value as a puck-mover. His skating speed and efficiency in zone exits are notable, but his defensive impact is less impressive, ranking in the 38th percentile. Stastney's ability to move the puck up the ice could be beneficial, especially next to a strong puck-retriever like Jake Walman.
In my opinion, Emberson stands out as the most proven and likely best player. His defensive impacts are too strong to ignore, and his WAR model rating surpasses both Mukhamadullin and Stastney. The Oilers already have a strong group of puck-movers, and adding a defensively-minded player will enhance their backend. Emberson's consistency and reliability make him a strong contender for the starting spot.
However, Mukhamadullin's defensive skills and potential cannot be overlooked. He deserves an extended look, especially with the opportunity to play alongside a strong supporting cast. Stastney, while a respectable depth option, falls short in comparison to Emberson and Mukhamadullin. The Oilers' coaching staff will likely experiment with different combinations, and the final decision will be made by the 2027 Playoffs.
This decision highlights the team's depth and the challenge of finding the right fit. The Oilers' coaching staff has a difficult task ahead, but with the right choices, they can build a strong defensive core for the upcoming season.
