Kris Knoblauch explains his decision to demote Zach Hyman
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The Edmonton Oilers have just wrapped up morning practice, and Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch has landed under the microscope for breaking up his top line ahead of Friday's game against the Anaheim Ducks.
This morning, Oilers fans saw some significant changes on the roster as Zach Hyman was demoted to the 3rd line.
Connor Brown has been tearing it up as of late, recording 10 points in his last 10 games, and head coach has rewarded him with a significant promotion alongside Connor McDavid and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins.
The Oilers first line has been a staple in the league the past few seasons, and the idea of breaking them up has ruffled some feathers in Oil Country.
Kris Knoblauch explains his decision to demote Zach Hyman
"Right now it helps out our team with spreading out the scoring. It also allows Brownie to get a reward for playing really well."
According to Kris Knoblauch, he does expect Zach Hyman to land himself back on the 1st line at some point in the future, but appears determined to maximize Connor Brown's impressive offensive output.
According to Liam McCormick of Oilers Daily, Connor Brown's playing well and deserves an increase of ice time, so why not reward him while sliding down a trusted vet like Hyman?
It may not even be viewed as a demotion, just the Oilers coach tweaking the lines with a litany of talented players. Still, we'll see in the Oilers next game how Knoblauch envisions these lines playing out.
More details and analysis to come. Answer our Oilers Central poll to get in on the conversation.
| POLL | ||
JANVIER 2 | 534 ANSWERS Kris Knoblauch explains his decision to demote Zach Hyman Do you think Connor Brown will maintain his spot on the 1st line? | ||
| Yes | 141 | 26.4 % |
| No | 393 | 73.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
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