Scratching Jeff Skinner makes sense - here's why:
Photo credit: Edmonton Journal
The Edmonton Oilers are gearing up for a thrilling showdown against the Los Angeles Kings, but forward Jeff Skinner finds himself in the press box again for the 3rd time in two weeks.
Jeff Skinner has landed himself under the proverbial microscope again, and fans are wondering what Kris Knoblauch has in store for Jeff Skinner leading up to the trade deadline.
Jeff Skinner was a healthy scratch against the Chicago Blackhawks, and Kris Knoblauch made the decision to healthy scratch Skinner again ahead of tonight's matchup against the Kings.
According to Liam McCormick of Oilers Daily, according to Oilers insider Jason Gregor, scratching Jeff Skinner seems to be more about keeping the 3rd line intact and getting ready to match the Kings physical style of play - who are also playing 11/7 tonight.
They want Janmark on the third line, so unless one of Skinner, Kapanen or Perry play fourth line C, it is Brown in for Ryan. Oilers and Kings both going 11-7.
It is one game. It seems odd to me to freak out over this and suggest Knoblauch is clueless. It is about matchups and wanting his third line intact and he wants some size.
- Jason Gregor
It is one game. It seems odd to me to freak out over this and suggest Knoblauch is clueless. It is about matchups and wanting his third line intact and he wants some size.
- Jason Gregor
Although Josh Brown hasn't played much, or even well with the Oilers, having an extra physical defenceman against a heavy forechecking team like Los Angeles could help the defence weather the storm.
-Oilers Daily
-Oilers Daily
Although Skinner's absence from tonight's game has sparked some outrage from fans, Kris Knoblauch aims to match the Kings toughness in what will undoubtedly be a playoff preview.
While Skinner has a full NMC in his contract, it will be interesting to if Stan Bowman can potentially work some magic to have him relocated elsewhere.
| POLL | ||
JANVIER 13 | 312 ANSWERS Scratching Jeff Skinner makes sense - here's why: Do you agree with the decision to healthy scratch Jeff Skinner again? | ||
| Yes | 193 | 61.9 % |
| No | 119 | 38.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
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