Connor Clattenburg is expected to return to Bakersfield soon, especially with Ryan Nugent-Hopkins nearing a comeback and scheduled to play Saturday in Seattle. This leaves little space for the 20-year-old winger, who recently showed the Edmonton Oilers what they had been missing. But did Clattenburg make the most of his NHL opportunity?
Called up last Friday to replace Noah Phillippe, who was placed on LTIR, Clattenburg made his NHL debut against Florida on Saturday. Just two games later, he notched his first NHL goal, delivered eight hits, stood his ground when needed, and energized the Rogers Place crowd despite an 8-3 loss to Dallas.
Clattenburg’s first goal, scored late in the second period against the Stars, was a bright moment in an otherwise lost game. His enthusiasm and celebration reminded everyone why these milestones matter beyond the scoreboard.
No one expected Clattenburg—a former 10th round OHL draft pick and Flint Firebirds captain—to reach the NHL so soon. This season, he played only 15 games for the Condors, with minimal points but significant penalty minutes, showing his role is more about physical play and presence than scoring.
In his two NHL games, Clattenburg brought energy and physicality, finishing checks and ready to take on challengers—something the Oilers desperately needed ahead of a rematch with the Panthers.
Against Dallas, he kept doing the fundamental things right—finishing checks, hustling, and playing with passion. Even with limited ice time, his impact was noticeable.
Clattenburg never expected to stay long-term as he isn’t a high-scoring player but instead a physical enforcer. The Oilers ideally wouldn’t need a 20-year-old AHL enforcer if their roster were healthy, but injuries, like Nugent-Hopkins’ absence since November 8, left a gap that Clattenburg filled.
With Nugent-Hopkins close to returning, and Clattenburg likely to be sent back down, it’s clear that his NHL stint was temporary. Still, he took the chance, played hard, scored, and showed he can compete at the highest level. His brief but impactful run reminds the Oilers of the importance of physicality and enthusiasm—qualities this team lacked for much of the season.
If Clattenburg is sent back, it won’t be because he faltered but because the roster is now healthier. For Edmonton, having him around, even briefly, was a welcome jolt of grit and energy. Connor Clattenburg seized his moment and made it count.
Fan Take: This story highlights how critical role players like Clattenburg are in bringing grit and energy to a team, which is often overlooked compared to star players. For hockey fans, it’s a reminder that the sport thrives not just on skill but also on heart and physicality—attributes that can inspire teams and shift momentum in unexpected ways.
