Connor Clattenburg's arrival in the NHL has been nothing short of a jolt of electricity for the Edmonton Oilers. The 20-year-old, drafted 160th overall in 2024, has rapidly ascended from a fifth-round pick to a player making a noticeable impact in the big leagues. While his offensive capabilities might not be his defining trait, it's a different, perhaps unexpected, element of his game that might just secure his place in the NHL: his rare brand of physicality and unrelenting intensity.
Clattenburg's journey to the NHL was expedited by a combination of factors, including injuries to key players and the Oilers' desperate need for a spark. After a strong final season in the OHL, where he recorded 16 goals, 19 assists, and 108 penalty minutes in 46 games, he signed an entry-level contract in December 2024. He played briefly with the Bakersfield Condors in the AHL before his recent recall.
Since joining the Oilers, Clattenburg has injected a much-needed dose of energy and grit into a team that had been struggling to find its identity. In just a few games, he has already scored his first NHL goal, engaged in a memorable fight, and delivered a series of bone-jarring hits. His physical presence has not only energized his teammates but has also resonated with the fans, who have quickly embraced him as a fan favorite.
What makes Clattenburg's case particularly compelling is the way he seems to elevate the play of those around him. Despite limited ice time, his impact is undeniable. He plays with an edge, throwing big hits, stirring things up in front of the net, and standing up for his teammates. While not everyone may be a fan of this style of hockey, it's the unwavering work ethic and heart that he displays that truly define him.
Statistically, Clattenburg's early performance has been eye-opening. In a small sample size, he has ranked highly among all NHL skaters in penalties taken and drawn, goals per 60 minutes, and hits per 60 minutes. More impressively, he has led the team in key advanced stats like expected goals for percentage (xGF%), scoring chance for percentage (SCF%), high-danger chance for percentage (HDCF%), and Corsi for percentage (CF%).
While some might argue that Clattenburg still needs more seasoning in the AHL, his immediate impact on the Oilers cannot be ignored. He brings a unique element that the team has been sorely lacking: a willingness to engage physically and inject energy into every shift. As the Oilers look to solidify their roster, Clattenburg's unusual blend of toughness and tenacity might be the very thing that keeps him in the NHL, providing a spark that goes beyond the scoresheet.
