Understanding Ty Emberson’s Impact on the Edmonton Oilers’ Defense
The recent acquisition of defenceman Ty Emberson by the Edmonton Oilers from the San Jose Sharks has generated a mix of curiosity and skepticism among fans. Initially seen as a low-profile addition, Emberson’s performance throughout the season has begun to shift perceptions. This article delves into his evolving role, statistical performance, and potential future with the team.
Emberson’s Early Struggles and Gradual Progression
Emberson’s entry into the Oilers lineup was marked by a learning curve. In his first three games, he exhibited signs of being overwhelmed and tentative, with ice times fluctuating significantly. Initially, he played 20:15 in his debut, but this was followed by decreasing times of 14:39 and a mere 10:21 in his fourth game, where he was a healthy scratch. Such a drop-off raised questions about his fit within the team.
However, as the season progressed, it became evident that Emberson was finding his footing. Analyzing his performance splits reveals a marked improvement. In the latter part of the season, despite similar ice time at five-on-five, his five-on-five goal percentage rose significantly from 35% to 50%, showcasing his growing impact on the ice.
Defensive Metrics: A Closer Look
Emberson’s stats indicate he has been improving as a dependable defenseman. For instance, his goals against per 60 minutes (GA/60) has notably decreased from 3.35 to 2.68. This highlights his effectiveness in reducing scoring chances against his team. Moreover, his performance on the penalty kill has been impressive; he leads the Oilers’ defense in time on ice during the last 14 games and has a remarkable 3.76 GA/60, ranking him third in the NHL among regulars during this span.
Emberson’s growth is also evident in his overall play style. Known for his tenacity and willingness to engage physically despite being undersized for an NHL defenceman, his ability to compete against larger players has drawn comparisons to Oilers’ Hall of Famer Kevin Lowe.
The Role of Brett Kulak
Another factor to consider is the influence of Brett Kulak, who has emerged as a strong partner for Emberson. The pair has logged substantial ice time together, with their 12-14 goal share at five-on-five indicating a solid partnership. However, it’s essential to note that while Kulak’s performance may have elevated Emberson’s numbers, the success of their pairing is beneficial for the Oilers as a whole.
Evaluating the Impact of Their Partnership
Statistics reveal that the Kulak-Emberson duo has a 53% expected goal share, suggesting that they are outperforming their opponents in terms of goal-scoring opportunities. Analyzing the types of players they are up against also shows that the coaching staff is willing to deploy them against elite competition, a testament to their growing trust in Emberson’s abilities.
Contract Value and Future Prospects
Emberson’s current contract, valued at $950,000, represents a significant bargain given his performance this season. As he approaches Group-6 free agency, the Oilers may face decisions regarding whether to extend his contract or potentially trade him to acquire more established players. With teams like the Columbus Blue Jackets potentially looking to offload veterans, Emberson could be part of trade discussions.
Looking ahead, if Emberson continues to ascend in performance, he could surpass players like Troy Stecher on the right-side depth chart. This would allow the Oilers to explore adding a higher-caliber defenseman to the second pairing, while maintaining a strong third pairing with Emberson and Kulak.
The Future of Oilers’ Defense
Emberson’s trajectory suggests a promising future with the Oilers. If he maintains his pace of development and increases his responsibilities on the ice, he could become a fixture in Edmonton’s defensive lineup for years to come. His unique combination of youth and affordability makes him a valuable asset on a team that is constantly navigating the complexities of salary cap management.
In summary, Ty Emberson’s journey with the Edmonton Oilers has transitioned from initial uncertainty to a position of growing importance. His performance metrics, partnership with Kulak, and potential for future development make him an intriguing player to watch as the Oilers continue to compete for success in the NHL.