Kris Knoblauch under fire for not utilizing Jeff Skinner correctly

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Patrick Frost
November 15, 2024 (8:24 PM)

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Edmonton Oilers fans are taking to social media, venting their frustrations regarding Kris Knoblauch's mishandling of forward Jeff Skinner.

It's no secret by now that Jeff Skinner hasn't exactly panned out the way Edmonton Oilers enthusiasts had hoped for.

So far this season, Jeff Skinner has notched 3 goals, 3 assists, and is a -6 rating on the ice -- not exactly all-star numbers.

During the NHL offseason, Jeff Skinner is signed a 1 year, $3,000,000 contract with a cap hit of $3,000,000 per season. Although fans were elated with the signing, the sentiment has rapidly regressed over time.

Now, Jeff Skinner finds himself in the dog-house. Over the past week, he's been demoted to the Oilers 4th line and has experience a significant decline in minutes.

Despite his recent demise on the Oilers roster, some fans are criticizing head coach Kris Knoblauch's "mishandling" Skinner.

Skinner has been heavily under-utilized by Kris Knoblauch this season, as he is just the type of winger that would fit perfect on McDavid's wing. He can pass the puck with great vision, and has a great shot and ability to play the boards. He does make defensive mistakes, but with McDavid playing an increasingly better defensive game, he should be able to heavily outscore this issue.
-Oilers Daily

Fans are calling for a change, emphasizing that Kris Knoblauch should give Jeff Skinner an extended look beside Connor McDavid. If Jeff Skinner remains stuck on the 4th line, his overall opportunities to capitalize offensively will be limited.

If Skinner doesn't improve, Oilers insider Bob Stauffer indicates that Skinner could be on the trade blocks in the coming months.

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