The Edmonton Oilers Trade Top Draft Pick Bourgault in Organizational “Spring Cleaning”
The Edmonton Oilers have executed a significant organizational overhaul in July.
In a move akin to a “second opinion,” the Oilers traded their 2021 First Round Draft Pick Xavier Bourgault and prospect Jake Chiasson to the Ottawa Senators. In return, they received winger Roby Jarventie and a 2025 Fourth Round Draft Pick. This trade, initially discussed during the draft, was finalized this morning.
Bourgault, drafted 22nd overall in 2021, has struggled to meet expectations. After a strong final junior year in Shawinigan (36-39-75 in 43 games), he found professional hockey challenging. In the 2022-23 season, he recorded 13-21-34 in 62 games for the Bakersfield Condors of the AHL.
However, his performance dropped to 8-12-20 in 55 games last season, raising concerns about his development. His declining performance included fewer shots, less impact in the attacking zone, and reduced time on special teams. Additionally, he battled a shoulder injury.
Chiasson, a 2021 4th Round pick, faced even greater struggles. After a junior year split between Saskatoon and Brandon (20-38-68 in 70 games), he spent most of his first pro season in the ECHL with the Ft. Wayne Comets, posting 9-11-20 in 68 games. He played only one game for the Condors.
In Jarventie, the Oilers acquire a 6’3″, 205+ lb 21-year-old Finnish prospect. Drafted 33rd overall by Ottawa in 2020, Jarventie has two full AHL seasons and seven NHL games under his belt. He recorded 9-11-20 in 22 AHL games last season before a knee surgery ended his year.
With one year left on his ELC and waiver exemption for another season, Jarventie is known for his anticipatory skills in the attacking zone, speed, and effective puck protection. He has Top-6 offensive potential and a dangerous shot but needs to improve his overall game.
Scott Wheeler from The Athletic notes Jarventie’s strengths, including his ability to leverage his size for puck protection and his multifaceted shot. Improvements in his acceleration and perimeter play have made him a promising call-up candidate. He handles the puck confidently and has developed finesse since being drafted.
In summary, the Oilers gain a bigger, closer-to-NHL-ready attacker and additional draft capital. While there’s a risk that Bourgault may thrive in Ottawa, this trade appears to be a narrow win for Edmonton, allowing them to move on from a seemingly unsuccessful draft pick.
