Written by: Scott Savard
Headline photo: Chad Goddard
Okotoks, AB (April 15, 2026) – The Detroit Red Wings have announced that former Okotoks Oiler Dylan James has signed a two-year entry-level deal with the NHL organization.
James appeared in 60 games across three seasons for the Green and Gold, with his first two games coming in the 2018-2019 season, where he potted his first goal and assist before joining the Oilers full-time during the 2019-2020 season. During his first full season with the squad, James impressed with 43 points (20G, 23A) in 51 games. In James’ final season with the Green and Gold, he would only appear in seven games as the 2020-2021 season was shut down due to COVID. In those seven games, James produced two goals and an assist.
During the 2021-2022 season, James found himself playing for the Sioux City Muskateers, where he finished second on the team with 33 assists and tied for second in goals with 28. James would also finish third in points for Sioux City with 61. He stayed hot in the post-season as he finished second in goals (5) and points (8) on the Muskateers in 10 games.
For the next four seasons, James suited up with the University of North Dakota, the same school that Oilers Assistant Coach and Director of Player Development, Corban Knight, played with during his time competing in the NCAA Division I. James hit the ice 154 times for North Dakota, producing 89 points (52G, 37A) across four seasons. He earned the assistant captain honours this past season (2025-2026) while hitting career highs in goals (21), assists (11), and points (32) before signing his first pro contract with the Red Wings.
James could play in his first professional hockey game tonight as he has joined the Red Wings’ AHL affiliate, the Grand Rapids Griffins, as they are in Iowa to face the Wild at 6:00.
The early bird season ticket sales have gone live. Make sure to get yours at: https://tickets.okotoksoilers.com/events/40207-2026-27-early-bird-season-tickets
The Okotoks Oilers are a not-for-profit, community-run junior hockey franchise competing in the BCHL and operating out of Viking Rentals Centre. For more information, visit okotoksoilers.com or follow the Oilers on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram.
