The Edmonton Oilers have undertaken a substantial reshuffle of their organizational roster in July, making what could be considered a significant move akin to a spring cleaning in hockey terms. Their decision involved parting ways with 2021 First Round Draft Pick Xavier Bourgault and prospect Jake Chiasson, trading them to the Ottawa Senators. In return, they acquired winger Roby Jarventie along with a Fourth Round Draft Pick in 2025. This transaction had been discussed since the draft period but was finalized recently.
Xavier Bourgault, selected 22nd overall in 2021, struggled to meet expectations following a stellar final junior season in Shawinigan, where he tallied impressive numbers (36 goals, 39 assists, 75 points in 43 games). However, his transition to professional hockey proved challenging. In his debut AHL season with Bakersfield in 2022-23, Bourgault managed 13 goals and 21 assists in 62 games. His performance declined further last season, registering only 8 goals and 12 assists in 55 games. Heading into the final year of his Entry-Level Contract (ELC), Bourgault faces a crucial juncture in his career. His diminished statistics in the AHL raise concerns, including reduced offensive output, fewer shots on goal, and decreased ice time on special teams, likely due to perceived shortcomings by the coaching staff. Additionally, Bourgault contended with a shoulder injury, further complicating his development.
Jake Chiasson, a fourth-round pick in 2021, faced even greater challenges. After a productive junior career split between Saskatoon and Brandon, where he accumulated 20 goals and 38 assists in 70 games, Chiasson struggled to find his footing in professional hockey. Most of his inaugural season was spent in the ECHL with the Ft. Wayne Comets, where he recorded 9 goals and 11 assists in 68 games. He made a solitary appearance for the Condors, Edmonton’s AHL affiliate.
In exchange, the Oilers acquired Roby Jarventie, a promising 21-year-old Finnish winger standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing over 205 pounds. Jarventie, drafted 33rd overall by Ottawa in 2020, boasts two full AHL seasons with Belleville and a brief stint in the NHL last season, contributing one assist in seven games but carrying a minus-five rating. He concluded last season on the injured list following knee surgery, with one year remaining on his ELC and waiver exemption for the upcoming season.
Jarventie is recognized for his anticipatory skills in the offensive zone, characterized by his adept use of size and speed to protect the puck effectively. Described as a modern power forward, he possesses a potent shot and top-six offensive capabilities, although he requires refinement in his all-around game, particularly in defensive responsibilities and acceleration. Analysts note his progress in skating and puck handling since his draft, with improvements in agility and finesse enhancing his utility on the ice, particularly on the power play.
This trade marks a strategic shift for Edmonton, aiming to address developmental gaps and enhance their forward depth with Jarventie’s potential contributions. As the Oilers prepare for the upcoming NHL season, this transaction underscores their commitment to optimizing roster dynamics and prospect development within their organizational framework.
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