Oilers prospect Raphael Lavoie named AHL All-Star

On the precipice of breaking into the NHL on a full-time basis, Lavoie landed as the number one prospect in the Oilers system. Here’s some of what Oilersnation prospect guru Bruce Curlock wrote about Lavoie:

Now what needs to be a focus for Lavoie on the next step is his skating. It is not bad. It’s even the plus side of average at the AHL level. However, at the NHL, it is average and his lateral mobility is not great. He will need some improvement there so that he is not constantly attacking defenders that same way (usually outside to inside power move).  The more he can work this into his game, the better chance he will have to play meaningful minutes in the NHL. Raphael Lavoie has taken quite a journey. It is not completely unique for certain. However, for someone with his size and skill sets, even to be a second-round pick was a bit of a surprise. Does Lavoie have what it takes to play in the NHL? Yes, he does. Can he play the middle-six minutes? I actually believe he can. Why? If he keeps his feet moving and plays responsibly, it is this one gift that could make the difference on a team that needs bottom-six scoring.