Max Wanner, a 21-year-old AHL defenseman for the Edmonton Oilers, faces an uphill battle to make it to the NHL. Despite being behind in terms of experience and draft pedigree, Wanner has one crucial advantage: his results. His game has the edge and physicality that the current Oilers management values in young players.
Wanner’s draft position in the seventh round of the 2021 pandemic draft does not accurately reflect his potential. Due to the limited opportunities to impress scouts during the unusual season, Wanner’s in-game impact was not fully showcased. However, a scout from the WHL spoke highly of Wanner’s playing style, describing him as “long and rangy” with a “miserable bite.” The scout believed that Wanner had the potential to play in the NHL and would thrive based on his ability to keep up with the pace of the game.
Wanner’s performance in the AHL aligns with the scout’s assessment. He has shown consistent improvement throughout his career, with his game evolving and becoming more competent each year. As a rookie in the AHL, Wanner played significant minutes alongside veteran puck mover Cam Dineen and top-10 draft pick Philip Broberg. His even-strength goal percentages were among the best on the Condors blue line, indicating his ability to outscore opponents. While he had some coverage issues, Wanner continued to develop as the season progressed.
In the second half of the season, Wanner’s even-strength percentage significantly improved, suggesting that he was learning and growing as a player. This observation aligns with the general trend of young players in the AHL, who often experience a spike in performance in the second half of the season. Wanner’s trajectory is positive, although it’s important to note that development for young defensemen is not always linear.
The Edmonton Oilers have a strong roster but have some potential weaknesses in right-handed defense and physicality. Wanner fits the bill for both of these areas. While the top three right-handed defensemen are solid, the depth chart becomes less certain after that. Injuries could create opportunities for Wanner to prove himself and earn a spot on the NHL roster. Players like Joshua Brown and Troy Stecher have their limitations, making Wanner a viable option for the team.
Overall, Wanner’s performance and potential make him a strong candidate for an NHL debut in the upcoming season. Despite being a seventh-round pick, Wanner has consistently outperformed expectations throughout his career. His physicality and defensive awareness align with the team’s needs, giving him an edge over other prospects. While there are no guarantees, Wanner’s positive trajectory suggests that he could be a valuable asset to the Edmonton Oilers in the near future.