Luke Prokop Joins Bakersfield Condors on One-Year Deal
Luke Prokop’s hockey journey has taken another step forward, as it was announced that the Bakersfield Condors, the AHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers, have signed him to a one-year contract. This move places the 23-year-old defenseman in a position to further develop his game and potentially carve out a bigger role in professional hockey.
Prokop, originally drafted 73rd overall by the Nashville Predators in the 2020 NHL Draft, spent last season with the Milwaukee Admirals. In 31 regular-season games, he recorded one goal and three assists, totaling four points. Since turning pro full-time in 2023, he has played in 40 AHL games, collecting six career points. Much of his earlier pro experience came in the ECHL, where he continued to work on his skills and earn opportunities at the higher level.
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Before reaching the professional ranks, Prokop’s junior hockey career was spent in the WHL with the Calgary Hitmen, Edmonton Oil Kings, and Seattle Thunderbirds. His imposing 6-foot-5 frame and ability to contribute on both ends of the ice made him a reliable presence on the blue line. Now entering his second full AHL season, it is expected that he may be given a chance to take on a more significant role in Bakersfield’s defensive rotation.
Beyond his on-ice contributions, Prokop’s name has been widely recognized for another reason. In 2021, during Edmonton’s Pride festivities, he publicly came out as gay via an Instagram post—becoming the first openly gay player under an NHL contract. His announcement was met with support across the hockey community, as he expressed that living authentically would allow him to bring his whole self to the rink and improve his chances of achieving his NHL dreams.
Although his new deal with Bakersfield is an AHL contract—making an NHL call-up unlikely this season—the opportunity remains important. Prokop will have the platform to prove he belongs as a consistent AHL defenseman. With the Condors’ coaching staff seeking to maximize his size, defensive reliability, and growing offensive instincts, this season could become a turning point in his professional career.
While the signing may not be the headline-grabber of Edmonton’s summer moves, it is certainly one worth following. Prokop’s personal journey, combined with his potential for on-ice growth, gives fans a reason to keep an eye on Bakersfield’s blue line. For the Oilers organization, it’s another chance to develop talent within their system—while for Prokop, it’s another chapter in a career and life story that continues to inspire both inside and outside the hockey world.
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