EDMONTON, AB - Oilers defenceman Kevin Gravel was quick to acknowledge the fact that he played with Oilers waiver claim Valentin Zykov when both players were members of the 2015-16 Ontario Reign.
Zykov appeared in 43 games that season in Ontario, notching seven goals and 14 points in his first full stint in the American Hockey League. Gravel, meanwhile, played 55 games and compiled 20 points.
"At least when I played with him, he was a goal scorer," the 26-year-old said Friday afternoon following Oilers practice. "I think he led the American League in goals last year. When I played with him, it was the same thing."
Zykov did indeed lead the AHL in goals last season with the Charlotte Checkers, where the skater has played the past two campaigns. The Russian scored 33 times and had 54 points in 63 games.
"He's got a lot of skill for his size," Gravel added. "He's a big guy, he's heavy on the puck and his hands are pretty good. He'll be able to play down low and score some goals."
As a result of claiming Zykov, the Oilers assigned Patrick Russell to the Bakersfield Condors.
BLOG: Gravel describes Zykov's game
Defender spent the 2015-16 season with the Ontario Reign alongside Oilers waiver claim Valentin Zykov
