Edmonton Oilers prospect Quinn Hutson is making a strong case for a permanent spot on the NHL roster, but for the sake of his long-term development, the Oilers should keep him with the Bakersfield Condors in the AHL for the remainder of the season.

Hutson, a 24-year-old forward, signed a two-year entry-level contract with the Oilers in April 2025 after an impressive college career at Boston University. In his final season with the Terriers, he led the team in scoring with 23 goals and 50 points in 37 games. His performance helped Boston University reach the Frozen Four national championship game.

That success has seamlessly translated to his first professional season with the Bakersfield Condors. Through Wednesday, January 8, 2026, Hutson has been a dominant force in the AHL, showcasing his offensive capabilities and proving he can excel at the professional level. He leads the entire AHL with 22 goals. His 36 points are just two shy of the league lead. If not for his time with the Oilers, Hutson would likely lead the league in points. Among AHL rookies, he is far and away the scoring leader, with a significant lead over the second-highest rookie scorer. In December 2025, Hutson was named the AHL Rookie of the Month after recording 13 points (nine goals, four assists) in eight games.

Hutson has already had a taste of the NHL this season, playing in four games with the Oilers. He scored his first NHL goal on December 18 against the Boston Bruins. During his stints with Edmonton, he averaged around 8 minutes of ice time per game. He was also briefly recalled in early January.

Upon returning to the Condors after his NHL call-ups, Hutson has continued his impressive scoring pace. In his last six games for Bakersfield, he has tallied nine goals and 12 points, including multiple multi-goal performances. He is currently logging top-line minutes and playing with considerable confidence. On January 6, 2026, he had two goals and an assist in a 5-3 win over the Abbotsford Canucks, and followed that up with a power-play goal in a 4-1 victory the next day.

While Hutson has demonstrated his ability to dominate in the AHL and has shown flashes of potential in his limited NHL exposure, keeping him in Bakersfield for the rest of the season is the most prudent course of action for his development. He is getting consistent top-line minutes and is playing in all key situations, which is essential for his continued growth. The Condors' coach has been able to pair Hutson with fellow call-up Isaac Howard, creating a potent offensive presence. Furthermore, the Condors are in a competitive Pacific Division, and every point Hutson contributes is crucial.

Oilers General Manager Keith Gretzky has praised Hutson's work ethic and willingness to learn the finer points of the game, including penalty killing. Hutson himself has acknowledged that there is a path for him in Edmonton and that his progress might be faster than he initially anticipated. He possesses an excellent shot and isn't afraid to use it, as evidenced by his 82 shots on goal this season. Despite being 5-foot-11 and 176 pounds, he can play a sturdy game, absorb contact, and handle his defensive responsibilities.

Although Hutson has proven he deserves a call-up, the Oilers should resist the urge to rush him to the NHL. Allowing him to continue honing his skills in Bakersfield will benefit both Hutson and the Oilers in the long run.