Lost in the bevvy of first round picks in Edmonton was another first round selection (22nd overall) from 2008. It turns out that Jordan Eberle might end up being the best one of the lot.  Finishing in the top 15 in NHL scorers, Eberle broke out with 76 points in 78 games for the young Oilers.

With an arsenal that includes a collection of the last three number one overall picks, Edmonton has an opportunity to make their team into something special. Eberle takes on a line that I like to call the “Boy Band Line” with Taylor Hall and center Ryan Nugent-Hopkins. While all three were producing points at an impressive clip, injuries claimed a significant chunk of Hall and RNH’s season, Eberle managed to dip and dodge the injury bug, missing only four games.

One look at Eberle’s first career goal against Calgary’s stud goalie Miikka Kiprusoff will show you that this young spark plug is something very, very special. 

Edmonton has the most to lose out of almost every other team in the NHL because of the development of their young stars. While players are spread out across the globe, the core of the franchise is in the dust bowl of Oklahoma City playing for the Oil Barons. Edmonton’s affiliate in the AHL is providing the proving grounds for Eberle and his young center, Nugent-Hopkins. Their chemistry and growth together are critical for the success of the Edmonton franchise moving forward.

For fantasy purposes, go after Eberle like he stole your wallet. He’s a low risk high reward player that plays on a fast-break style offensive team in Edmonton. He won’t rack up any defensive stats or hits, but he features prominently in all of the Oiler’s special teams and will excel in every offensive category.

Jordan Eberle is fast becoming one of the top right wings in the NHL. Watch out for him and watch out for the Oilers.