Kris Knoblauch continues to keep Jeff Skinner in his dog-house
After being healthy scratched during yesterday's game against the Anaheim Ducks, it appears that Kris Knoblauch has put his foot down regarding Jeff Skinner, as he was kept as an extra forward during today's practice.
According to Oilers insider Bob Stauffer, Jeff Skinner was the extra forward at practice today, and all signs point towards another healthy scratch for tomorrows game against Utah HC.
While Knoblauch's decision to healthy scratch Jeff Skinner was somewhat surprising, it had been anticipated for some time due to his decline since the start of the season.
According to Liam McCormick of
Oilers Daily, It's truly shocking how horribly the fit between Jeff Skinner and Edmonton has turned out, after many fans believed he could post a career year with the Oilers high octane offence.
In 35 games this season, Jeff Skinner has just 6 goals and 12 points and a brutal -11 on ice rating. What's worse is that the coach clearly doesn't trust him in the top six - Skinner has played less than 60:00 with
Connor McDavid and
Leon Draisaitl all year.
Could the Oilers Trade Jeff Skinner?
Jason Strudwick form the GYB Podcast reports that Bowman will eventually have a conversation with Skinner about relocating, he doesn't see the two parties ending this season together.
«I believe there's going to be a mutual agreement to say guys, this just isn't working out.» Strudwick said Skinner is a good player, but his style just might not fit with the team. «Let's find a solution where we're going to get the chance to move you to someplace you can play and play more. He's not a fourth-liner.»
-Jason Strudwick
As per Oilers Daily, The Oilers now need to clear his $3M of salary this season, and Skinner needs to salvage his year to get a new contract in free agency. It seems both sides are ready and willing to move on.
Personally, its tough to say wether or not Skinner would be interested moving, but waiving his NMC and embracing a change of scenery could help spark his offensive groove.
Previously on Oilers Central
POLL |
DECEMBRE 30 | 315 ANSWERS Kris Knoblauch continues to keep Jeff Skinner in his dog-house Should the Oilers trade Jeff Skinner? |
Yes | 235 | 74.6 % |
No | 80 | 25.4 % |
List of polls |
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Feb 23 | By Patrick Frost Insider gets brutally honest about Calvin Pickard's performance |
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Feb 23 | By Patrick Frost Edmonton Oilers are desperate for a new look between the pipes |
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Feb 23 | By Patrick Frost Connor McDavid criticizes the Edmonton Oilers performance |
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Feb 23 | By Patrick Frost Kris Knoblauch starting to grow weary of Stuart Skinner - calls him out post game |
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Feb 23 | By Patrick Frost Anaheim Ducks goaltender John Gibson may not longer be an option for Edmonton Oilers |
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Feb 23 | By Patrick Frost Edmonton Oilers make shocking last minute roster change |
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Feb 23 | By Patrick Frost Preview: Edmonton Oilers drop projected lineup against Washington Capitals |