The Edmonton Oilers' ongoing goaltending struggles have ignited a fresh wave of debate among fans, with the spotlight now intensely focused on Jesper Wallstedt, the Minnesota Wild's rookie sensation. Wallstedt's stellar performance is prompting many to revisit the Oilers' 2021 draft decision, a move that saw them trade down and miss the opportunity to select the highly touted Swedish netminder.
Edmonton's current goaltending tandem of Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard have been statistically underwhelming, exacerbating the team's slide down the standings. Meanwhile, Wallstedt is enjoying a remarkable start to his NHL career. In his first full season, Wallstedt boasts a 5-0-2 record with a 2.20 goals-against average (GAA) and a .926 save percentage. He also leads the league with two shutouts.
Wallstedt's recent standout performance, a 42-save effort, further solidified his status as a rising star and extended his shutout streak to a Wild rookie record. His impressive play has earned him the moniker "Wall of St. Paul".
Oilers fans have taken to social media to express their frustration with the team's decision to pass on Wallstedt in the 2021 NHL Draft. On July 23, 2021, the Oilers traded the 20th overall pick to the Minnesota Wild, who promptly selected Wallstedt. Edmonton instead drafted Xavier Bourgault and an additional pick; however, Bourgault is no longer with the team, having been traded to the Ottawa Senators for Roby Jarventie, who is currently in the AHL.
At the time of the 2021 draft, Wallstedt was considered by many to be the top goaltending prospect available. Scouting reports highlighted his technical refinement, hockey sense, and poised demeanor in the crease. Dan Marr, director of NHL Central Scouting, described Wallstedt as "the complete package," praising his athleticism, goaltending skills, and competitive drive. While some scouts acknowledged that Wallstedt may not have had the "sky-high projection" of other prospects, his maturity and readiness for the NHL were undeniable.
The decision to trade down and pass on Wallstedt was reportedly made by then-Oilers scouting director Tyler Wright. Adding to the sting, the Oilers also passed on Wyatt Johnston, who was selected 23rd overall by the Dallas Stars and has since become a star forward.
The Oilers' struggles and Wallstedt's success underscore the importance of strong scouting and sound decision-making in the draft. While hindsight is always 20/20, the Oilers' current situation serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of draft-day decisions. As Wallstedt continues to shine in Minnesota, Oilers fans can only wonder what might have been.
