Edmonton Oilers Call Up Defenseman

The Edmonton Oilers have called up Markus Niemelainen to their NHL roster.

Niemelainen has already played in 15 games for Edmonton this season. During them, the 6-foot-6 defenseman failed to record a point and had a minus-1 rating. Although he did not make an impact offensively, his physical play was quite apparent, as his 45 hits effectively show.

This is a good chance for Niemelainen to show the Oilers that he is ready to be a full-time NHL player. Time will tell how the 24-year-old performs for them from here.

Photo Credit: © Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports