Oilers defenseman leaves organization to sign with German team

Jim Matheson of the Edmonton Journal tweeted Thursday that Oilers defenseman Markus Niemelainen has decided to sign with Eisbaren Berlin in Germany.

Defence man Markus Niemelainen, who showed his big-time hitting ability in 20 Oiler games but spent most of his time on farm in Bakersfield, has moved on to Eisbaren Berlin in Germany.

— Jim Matheson (@jimmathesonnhl) September 12, 2024

He was selected by the Oilers in the 2016 entry draft, 63rd overall. Many felt that he would have great success with the Oilers, but sadly this was not the case as he only played 43 games in his NHL career with a total of 20 games with the Oilers.

The Oilers acquire Matthew Savoie. Skilled right shot forward that was a big part of Moose Jaw’s WHL Championship.
He immediately becomes the @EdmontonOilers top ranked prospect IMO.
Ryan McLeod is a good guy.
Wish him the best of luck with the Sabres. https://t.co/2ZNPNPigYT

— Bob Stauffer (@Bob_Stauffer) July 5, 2024

It became clear that he was going to be a perennial AHL player and had spent the bulk of his time with the Bakersfield Condors. The notion was that he would be an excellent defensive defenseman as he stands 6-foot-5 and 200 lbs which would give them a physical edge from the back end.

Edmonton Oilers off-season (11/32):

-Signed L. Draisaitl for 8x14M
-Signed V. Arvidsson for 2x4M
-Signed A. Henrique for 2x3M
-Signed J. Skinner for 1x3M
-Acquired a 2025 2nd round pick for P. Broberg
-Acquired a 2025 3rd round pick for D. Holloway
-Acquired V. Podkolzin…

— BBH | NHL NEWS (@BBH_NHL) September 11, 2024

Between the Condors and the Oilers, he played 43 games, with one assist and eight penalty minutes. These numbers are brutal and were expected to be far better.

Edmonton selects Sam O'Reilly with the 32nd overall pick! ⛽️#NHLDraft | @EdmontonOilers pic.twitter.com/1ODKXZrH4m

— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) June 29, 2024

During those seasons, many felt the Oilers’ later draft picks were not hitting as often as they should, but the organization has turned the page and are drilling down more on analytics to help build their rosters and their farm club.