Isaac Howard<\/p>\n
Isaac Howard<\/a> is looking to make the Oilers\u2019 roster out of training camp but also stick with the big club all season. Howard spent most of 2025-26 with the Bakersfield Condors in the American Hockey League (AHL) and had a great season. He recorded 24 goals and 50 points in 47 games with the Condors in a top-six role. Unfortunately, that success didn\u2019t translate to the NHL. He played 29 games with Edmonton, registering a measly two goals and five points. However, he had a bottom-six role and averaged just 10:19 per game, significantly less than his AHL minutes.<\/p>\n As a 2022 first-round pick, he\u2019s entering a huge development year. The 22-year-old forward needed some seasoning in the AHL before making the full-time jump to the NHL. With a full professional season under his belt and a small taste of the NHL, it\u2019s time to see if he\u2019s ready to take that next step<\/a> and contribute.<\/p>\n The Wisconsin native has a glorious opportunity in front of him. The top six has an opening, since Matt Savoie will miss the start of the season. With only four preseason games, Howard must make the most of his ice time and prove he deserves that spot. If he wins that job, he must maintain it. He should be motivated, so let\u2019s see what he can do in the preseason.<\/p>\n Eduards Tralmaks<\/p>\n For many fans, this will be their first look at Eduards Tralmaks. The Oilers signed Tralmaks<\/a> to a one-year contract with an $850,000 cap hit. The Latvian winger spent last season with the Grand Rapids Griffins in the AHL. He registered 26 goals and 42 points in 64 games, with a plus-29 rating. Before that, his previous AHL stint was with the Providence Bruins in 2022-23. In between, he played two seasons in Czechia. Despite being 29, he still hasn\u2019t played his first NHL game. But that could change this season.<\/p>\n So, what should fans expect<\/a>? Tralmaks is a big body at 6-foot-3, 221 pounds, and he uses his massive frame to his advantage. He\u2019s a high-energy power forward who can be physical and aggressive on the forecheck. He uses his size to get to the net and create opportunities. His play style is a perfect fit for the bottom six. It\u2019s unlikely he becomes a full-time NHLer, but he has potential to crack the roster. If he doesn\u2019t, injuries happen, making it likely that he plays games for the Oilers this season.<\/p>\n Devon Levi <\/p>\n The Oilers completely overhauled their goaltending since last preseason. They went from Stuart Skinner, Calvin Pickard, and Connor Ingram to Tristan Jarry, Frederik Andersen, and Devon Levi<\/a>. General manager Stan Bowman acquired Levi and a 2028 seventh-round pick from the Buffalo Sabres for a 2028 third-round pick. Levi is intriguing and comes in with uncertainty.<\/p>\n The 24-year-old netminder is the least experienced of the trio. He has just 39 NHL games under his belt and none since Jan. 20, 2025. His numbers were underwhelming in the NHL, posting a 3.29 goals-against average (GAA) and an .894 save percentage (SV%). However, he posted solid AHL numbers. In 120 games, he had a 2.52 GAA and a .914 SV%, with 10 shutouts. His playoff numbers were also great, posting a 2.57 GAA and a .917 SV%, with three shutouts in 16 games.<\/p>\n He should\u2019ve been ready to take the next step, but Buffalo\u2019s crowded goaltending pool blocked him, with Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, Alex Lyon, and Colten Ellis ahead of him. The youngster needed a fresh start and a new opportunity. He has the potential to become Edmonton\u2019s starter<\/a>.<\/p>\n Jarry has struggled since his acquisition, and Andersen has battled injuries<\/a> his entire career and won\u2019t be healthy to start the season. Therefore, if Levi outplays Jarry in camp, he has a path to be the guy. The job is up for grabs, but will Levi seize the moment? A strong preseason will go a long way. The Oilers desperately needed a new face between the pipes, so hopefully this gamble pays off.<\/p>\n These three players will hope to make an impact with the big club. The Oilers begin their preseason schedule on Sept. 19 at home against the Winnipeg Jets. Keep following The Hockey Writers<\/a> for all your NHL content throughout the season.<\/p>\n Free Newsletter<\/p>\n \n Get Edmonton Oilers coverage delivered to your inbox <\/p>\n In-depth analysis, breaking news, and insider takes – free.<\/p>\n![\"Devon](\"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nhl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Devon-Levi-Sabres-2-1200x900.jpg\")
Devon Levi, Buffalo Sabres (Amy Irvin<\/a> \/ The Hockey Writers)<\/p>\n