The Edmonton Oilers have made a roster adjustment, sending forward Max Jones to their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Bakersfield Condors. The move was confirmed on January 1, 2026.
Details of the Transaction
This decision involves the demotion of a player known for his gritty, physical style of play. Max Jones, a veteran forward who fits the role of a "grinder," has been assigned to Bakersfield to continue his season in the AHL. The news was first reported by the Edmonton Journal.
Implications for the Oilers' Lineup
Roster moves like this are common in the NHL as teams manage salary caps, player performance, and lineup needs throughout the long season. Sending a player like Jones to the minors can serve multiple purposes:
- Creating salary cap flexibility for other potential transactions.
- Allowing the player to receive more consistent ice time to refine his game.
- Addressing immediate roster or positional logjams at the NHL level.
For Jones, the assignment provides an opportunity to play a leading role with the Condors and work on aspects of his game to earn a recall to Edmonton.
What's Next for the Team and Player?
The Oilers' management, led by General Manager Ken Holland, is constantly evaluating the team's composition. This move suggests they are looking to tweak their bottom-six forward group or make room for another player returning from injury or from their own AHL squad. The Bakersfield Condors gain an experienced NHL player who can bolster their lineup and mentor younger prospects.
Fans and analysts will be watching to see if this is a short-term maneuver or part of a longer-term strategy for the Oilers as they navigate the 2025-26 season. Further updates on the team's roster configuration are expected in the coming days.
