Kris Knobluach updates Jeff Skinner's game status
The Edmonton Oilers are looking for a major rebound following their lacklustre weekend of hockey in California. Tonight, the Oil take on Utah HC, and head coach Kris Knoblauch has given Jeff Skinner the opportunity to redeem himself after sitting out last game in the press box.
Before their road trip to California, the Edmonton Oilers were one of the hottest teams in the NHL, but have since cooled off.
While Jeff Skinner has been a massive disappointment for the Oilers so far, he won't be sitting in the press box tonight as Tom Gazolla reports that Skinner will slot in, and another player will come out.
The likely candidate to sit out for tonight's matchup is Derek Ryan, but Corey Perry is also a possibility.
According to Liam McCormick of Oilers Daily, The Oilers coach didn't get into more details about the next healthy scratch, probably just keeping his decision close to the vest after the reaction to the Skinner scratch.
Most of the Oilers depth players have played well, and deserve to be in the lineup. Coach Knoblauch referred to just that yesterday, and said it'd be incredibly difficult for Skinner to earn more ice time except for injury.
»A coach can nudge a player to get that confidence, but a lot of it's on the player. There's an avenue absolutely, if there's injuries, other players not playing well. Right now you look at those guys he needs to jump over, they've been playing really well.»
- Coach Knoblauch
Utah HC has been a pleasant surprise for the NHL this season. They currently boast a 16-14-6 record, sitting 5th in the Central Division.
Jeff Skinner will look to make the most of his opportunities on the ice tonight.
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DECEMBRE 31 | 265 ANSWERS Kris Knobluach updates Jeff Skinner's game status Do you think Jeff Skinner will score a goal tonight? |
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