Oilers Sign Simpson

We have been waiting a little while for this one, but last night it finally happened, the Edmonton Oilers signed University of North Dakota defender Dillon Simpson to a three-year entry level contract. Simpson will not join the AHL’s Oklahoma City Barons during their playoff run, as he plans on staying at school and finishing his degree.

He’ll likely attend the Oilers rookie camp in July, the rookie tournament in Penticton in September, and will be at training camp later that month.

The Oilers snagged Simpson with the 92nd overall pick in the 2011 NHL entry draft, so Simpson joins the likes of Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Oscar Klefbom, David Musil, Travis Ewanyk and Marty Gernat in graduating to the pro ranks.

Simpson provides the Oilers with another solid defensive prospect. Simpson could play in all situations as a college player at UND, but is more of a defensive defender. Like Tom Gilbert and Jeff Petry before him, Simpson is not an overly physical hockey player, but he is very smart.

Simpson can move the puck well, has the ability to put up some points, has a smart stick, and a high hockey IQ. He’s not going to bulldoze anyone, but he’s very sound defensively. Simpson also is willing to block shots, and as mentioned, plays more of a sound and smart game than anything else.

I had the chance to watch him during this year’s NCAA tournament, and to me he was the best defender in just about every game. He handled big minutes and tough situations and stood out. His smooth passing and vision made him an offensive threat while his smart play rarely bled chances against.

Simpson will need some AHL time, and will likely get it next fall in Oklahoma City. That being said, he looks closer to being ready than some prospects already in the Oilers’ pipeline. He could be ready for the 2015-16 season, and could even see a little time next year, although I’d prefer he gets a full year in the minors.

Simpson joins a crowed prospect depth chart, and one wonders if the Oilers will eventually move a young prospect like Oscar Klefbom or Martin Marincin to get a more established, elite, NHL defender. I wouldn’t say it’s certain, but the odds no doubt increased Tuesday.

Simpson is a big time prospect for the Oilers, and will be spending the next three seasons developing in the system. This was a very good signing by Edmonton, and could end up being a steal for the team when we look back at the 2011 NHL draft.

This is going to be one interesting player to watch as we move forward. Welcome aboard Dillon.