Theo Peckham, a 6-1, 216 pound defender is the property of the Edmonton Oilers. One of only 7 defenseman in Canada to not play on the Oilers blue line last year, Peckham is currently playing with the Springfield Falcons in the American Hockey League. Having played only 4 games at the AHL level, the 19 year old Peckham is still trying to establish himself as an everyday player.
He has had a strong start, however, and Coach Buchberger has stated that he gains confidence in Peckham every time he hits the ice. Not a gifted offensive player, the OHL graduate has nevertheless scored 1-1-2 in his 4 games and is an even. His loan goal came on the powerplay and was a game winner.
Peckham was known as more of a fighter in junior, where he regularly amassed more than 200 PIM’s a season. That being said, he is still a smart hockey player who makes good decisions and can contribute to a team in other ways. Able to make solid open ice hits and a force in front of the net, Peckham fits nicely into the mold of tough stay at home defensemen that the Oilers seem to covet.
The Oilers are said to see Peckham as part of the new breed of enforcer, in that he can fight and still contribute to the team. Any player that makes the safe decisions and doesn’t get noticed too much will be a favorite of MacTavish’s. Though Peckham has NHL size right now, he will likely spend a couple of years in Springfield working on his skating and quickness.
