According to the team’s official account, the Oilers have recalled Caleb Jones from AHL Bakersfield while placing Brandon Manning on the Injured Reserve.

Manning injured himself last night getting into a fight after Connor McDavid took a big hit. It’s amazing, just a few years ago, Manning was Public Enemy No. 1 for injuring McDavid, and now he’s out here standing up for McDavid in a fight. Funny how things change. Anyways, Manning has a hand injury and there isn’t yet a timetable for his return.

Coming up in his place will be Caleb Jones. After having a very successful showing last year in a difficult spot when the Oilers’ blueline was decimated with injuries, Jones somewhat surprisingly didn’t crack the roster out of camp this year. Since being sent down, though, Jones has been excellent in the AHL, posting 10 points in 13 games.

It’ll be interesting to see what happens with Jones. If he plays well, it’ll be very hard for the Oilers to send him back down. It’s the same thing with Ethan Bear. He’s been excellent playing alongside Darnell Nurse in Adam Larsson’s absence and I’m not sure how the Oilers can rationalize sending him down at this stage. Strong play from Jones would create a similar situation. The future might be now for Edmonton’s blueline.