Oilers Sign Princeton Tigers Captain

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One thing is for certain; the IQ of the Oilers organization just skyrocketed. Edmonton announced earlier today that they have signed Princeton Tigers captain Taylor Fedun to a 2-year entry level contract. The local product just finished his 4-year tour of duty in the NCAA and is en route to Oklahoma City where he will join the AHL's Barons for the rest of the season and playoffs.

Here is the official release from the Oilers and from Princeton.

What I remember from conversations with scouts during Fedun's draft year (2006) was that he was a player on the list of a lot of teams, just not high enough that he was chosen that June. Good size, but not huge at 6'1 and 210 lbs, Fedun has grown and filled out since his tenure with the Fort Saskatchewan Traders. Footspeed was considered an issue.

I also recall being told by more than one scout that Fedun's choice of Princeton was a bit of a put off. Let's be honest, getting into Princeton is a remarkable accomplishment and shows that the individual has skills between the ears. At the same time, as much as we've like dealing with the Tigers and speaking with Edmonton-born head coach Guy Gadowsky, the hockey program isn't known as a NHL talent factory.

Suffice to say, Fedun's choice was obviously the right one for him as he'll wrap up his education with an impressive resumé and he's also developed and played well enough on the ice that he's earned a pro contract. Tough to argue with that kind of success.

For more information on Fedun and his award-laden tenure at Princeton, here is his bio page from the Tigers which is rather in-depth. Also worth noting, Fedun was a Global Sports Athlete of the Week here in Edmonton back during his Midget AAA days.

(Photos: Princeton Tigers / Beverly Schaefer)