It’s not exactly a house-cleaning, but the Edmonton Oilers began shuffling their deck chairs Friday. Article content

With Zach Hyman expected back for Saturday’s game in Carolina, the Oilers sent rookie Ike Howard to the American Hockey League for seasoning and placed defenceman Troy Stecher on waivers. Article content Article content

Howard, with two goals and one assist in 17 games, will get considerably more playing time and responsibility in Bakersfield than the 9:30 per game he was getting in Edmonton, so this is best for his development.

The 21-year-old has been OK, but he’s not a bottom-six forward, and he’s not ready for the top six. Players in that situation always benefit from some time in the minors, as evidenced by Matt Savoie, who is looking solid on the first line wi

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