Where will Max Jones begin the 2026-27 season for the Edmonton Oilers?

# Quick answer Max Jones is most likely to begin the 2026-27 season in the AHL with the Bakersfield Condors, but he should get repeated NHL opportunities if injuries or form open spots in Edmonton's bottom six.

# What Jones did last season Jones moved to Edmonton in the trade that sent Trent Frederic elsewhere. He made an immediate impression in his first game with an assist, then went quiet for a stretch before finishing the season with more noticeable play. His NHL stints included:

• An early run where he recorded a goal and an assist across eight games.
• A later recall for 15 games in a season-ending injury window where he produced two goals and an assist in 13 games.
• Strong five-on-five underlying numbers: across 174:48 minutes the Oilers outscored teams 8-5 with an expected-goal share of 60.5% while he was on ice.

Between NHL stints he played 39 games in the AHL (Bakersfield) and posted 10 goals and 18 points.

# Roster picture and competition Several wingers are competing for a handful of bottom-six spots in Edmonton. Specific names mentioned as competition include Isaac Howard, Mathieu Joseph, Josh Samanski, Trent Frederic, Quinn Hutson, Colton Dach, Mattias Janmark, and Max Jones. Jason Dickinson is the only near-lock noted to centre the third line, which leaves limited wing openings.

Key factors affecting Jones' immediate status:

• Playing style and role: Jones provides energy and a physical, noticeable presence on the wing—attributes that translated into positive five-on-five metrics despite modest point totals.

• Waiver history: He has cleared waivers in the past two seasons, lowering the chance another team claims him if Edmonton attempts to send him down.

# Likely scenarios for the season start Three possible opening destinations are outlined:

1. 1NHL roster: Jones makes the Oilers as a bottom-six winger after outperforming peers in preseason. He keeps his NHL spot through consistent energy shifts and occasional scoring.
2. 2New NHL club: He could change organizations if moved, but his recent waiver history suggests this is less likely than an internal AHL assignment.
3. 3AHL Bakersfield Condors: The article identifies this as the most likely outcome. Starting in Bakersfield gives him regular minutes and visibility for quick recalls.

# What Jones needs to do in preseason

# Bottom line Jones has demonstrated that he can influence play at five-on-five and bring noticeable energy. Given the number of competitors for a few roster spots, and his recent waiver history, an AHL start with Bakersfield is the most probable outcome. Expect multiple NHL chances during the season if he continues to play the same game he showed in prior call-ups.