UTMCretin wrote:I've been thinking about this the past few days, and an interesting thing was pointed out to me recently: Even though Tambellini's exact role or level of input is still questionable at this point, the hiring of Tambellini does represent a change in the general way things have been done in the Oilers organization over the past few years; namely, that he wasn't promoted from within. Considering the amazing level of nepotism that permeated the Oilers' front office in the EIG years, this has to be considered a positive development and one that wouldn't have occurred without the addition of Katz as owner. So while Tambellini's part in decision-making, and even whether or not he will perform the task of General Manager with any level of competence (although I'm not too worried there) has not been determined yet, he does represent a change from the traditional hiring policies of the Oilers' brass. If nothing else, it shows that Katz is willing to look outside the previous "good ol' boy" employment practices and to whomever he feels is best fit for the job. And personally, I think that desire to be willing to look elsewhere for ideas is a positive move forwards in rebuilding the Oilers to the level of contenders again.
I think there are several factors in play with regard to Katz and his role at the helm of the Oilers.
First, he wants to make it very clear that he is not the EIG, and that the Oilers are now infused with a virtually limitless supply of cash (at least, in NHL terms). He wants it made clear to big-name players that he is willing to shell out for talent. Even though the Oilers didn't score in their Hossa and Jagr sweepstakes this year, you can bet that agents for the next round of studly UFAs are going to keep Katz & Co. in mind for their short list.
Second, Katz is also fighting a domestic battle in Alberta for a new arena. He has two major opposing groups: the anti-taxpayer-funding crowd, and pro-Calgary, anti-Edmonton haters. Neither one is going to want to see a crown jewel of a sports & entertainment complex set in Edmonton. Thus Katz must skate a winning team -- fast -- in order to prove that the investment would be worth it to the province. Plus he has to prove that operations at the Oilers aren't going to be the "Good Ol' Boys Club". Yet he also has to balance that Old Club's interests because many of those former EIG members are going to have to be on-board, politically, for a new arena to get built.
Third, Katz isn't used to losing to anybody. He has made his billions by copying success, and tweaking it to get even more out of it. Thus the new strategy around the Oilers' front office: copy the Red Wings' model. In this context, much of their movements and drafting makes a lot of sense. Some complain that the Oilers' defense still isn't up to size, but if you look in their system, they have some very promising blue line prospects about to emerge. Katz is looking to build a consistent winning team... something Edmonton has been lacking for a decade and a half. The next few years should prove to be very interesting.
Wake me up when it's time to drop the puck.
