Just Who Is Caleb Jones?

With the 117th pick in this years draft the Oilers are proud to select, from the U.S National Development program, Caleb Jones.

Now, if you’re like me, this draft was all about when the Oilers picked number 1, number 16 and number 31. Well we know who went #1 and picks 16 and 31 were traded away for Griffin Reinhart. But as the rounds the Oilers 2nd pick in this years draft was Caleb Jones. His brother (Seth) has been talked about more among Oilers fans in recent months as it was hoped that he could be pried away from the Nashville Predators to come in and solidify the blue line.

The Oilers got a Jones anyway, and Caleb, while not as highly touted as his big brother, looks to be a promising blue liner in the future. Weighing in at 6’1″ and 190lbs he’s not the biggest defender out there, but by all reports he’s got himself a well rounded game. Eliteprospects.com had this to say about him leading into the draft;

A versatile two-way defenseman that can fill many different roles and team needs in certain situations due to his workmanlike approach to his position. Possesses a tireless motor and is aggressive on the blue-line. Physicality and board battles are the anchors that hold his game together. Works hard in all situations and is a step ahead in problem solving. Exhibits good mobility, a quick, accurate shot from the point, and an active stick. All-in-all, a heads-up defenseman who plays a solid, smart all-around game.

“Versatile two-way defenseman…aggressive on the blue line…Physicality and board battles are the anchors that hold his game together”

And I says PARDON…..Those are the exact traits the Oilers need, and are going to continue to need going forward. Caleb isn’t going to score 50 points per season. He may not be the flashiest of defensive players, but the Oilers have enough flash.

Jones is at the very minimum 3 years away from playing regular NHL ice time, and that is being extremely generous. He’s committed to play for the Portland Winterhawks in the WHL for the upcoming season and if all goes well we’ll be able to watch him in the AHL with Bakersfield for the 16/17 season.  4th rounders making the NHL brings pretty low odds, but I think the Oilers may have found a diamond in the rough here.

Thanks for Reading.

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