Roby Järventie has changed his mind, apparently. Despite recent reports out of Finland that the 22 year old forward had signed a contract with Tappara of the Finnish Liiga for next season, the Edmonton Oilers prospect has now signed a one year, $775k AAV extension with the Oilers.
https://x.com/EdmontonOilers/status/1929934849110094054?s=19
Initially drafted by the Senators in the second round, 33rd overall of the 2020 draft. The Finnish forward then saw a move to the Oilers after a trade with the Ottawa Senators last July, which saw Oilers 2021 first rounder Xavier Bourgault, and ECHL depth forward Jake Chiasson headed the other way.
The Tampere-born Järventie has not seen much action within the Oilers system as he was limited to just two games this past season, where he posted two assists. Edmonton is taking a chance that this injury plagued season won’t set the 22 year old back much by extending him.
What to expect from Roby Järventie
This is also a low-risk, high-reward type move as it’s likely that Järventie competes for a depth spot at Oilers training camp next season.
What the Oilers are getting out of Järventie is a high scoring offensive driver with sniper and some playmaker tendencies. His game is largely defined by his puck skills, shooting, and skating. A quick agile skater with deadly offensive instincts, puck management, and finishing ability.
A high danger offensive mind, who is further along in his development pathway, (despite the injury setbacks), than other prospects in similar positions.
Why the change of heart?
Some possible factors that led to Järventie’s decision to re-up with the Oilers include: higher monetary guarantees than his Liiga contract, the possibility of increased playing time due to a depleted Oilers prospect pool in Bakersfield, and the realistic possibility that he does see NHL time next season.
It was also revealed by Jason Gregor on X, that the Liiga deal had an NHL opt-out and was essentially a backup plan for the Finn. Järventie and his agent simply weren’t sure if a Oilers deal would happen.
With recent news that Drake Caggiula has signed in Switzerland for next season, a spot with a bigger role for the Condors also opened up for Järventie to possibly fill.
Whatever the deciding factor was for Järventie, this is a win for the Oilers as they get another possible cheap/young depth option with real NHL potential, and another possible secondary scoring option for their club next season.
