Oilers waive Markus Granlund and Brandon Manning for purpose of assignment

This morning, the Edmonton Oilers announced via their Twitter account that they have waived both @Markus Granlund and @Brandon Manning for the purpose of assignment to the Bakersfield Condors.

After getting absolutely demolished in last night’s game against the Calgary Flames, the Oilers have some movement today as both Granlund and Manning will be making their way to Bakersfield, clearing up two roster spots with the big club. Since it’s unlikely (read: a promise) that neither of these guys will get picked up, you have to think that there will be at least one Condor being called up to fill in for Granlund while Matt Benning must be nearing a return after not playing since he suffered a concussion in San Jose. Would Tyler Benson, as an example, be enough of an upgrade to make a difference in what would be his rookie season in the NHL?

As for the demotees, Markus Granlund has been a healthy scratch often of late, playing just three of the past eight games. The 26-year-old has only four points over 31 NHL games this season, and it seems obvious that he’ll slip through waivers to land in Bakersfield. For Brandon Manning, has been a healthy scratch for the last 18 games so waiving him is hardly a surprise. At the end of the day, waiving Granlund and Manning will make little difference to the team as neither guy plays often or in any type of prominent role.