Kris Knoblauch hints a massive change is coming after slow start

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Finnegan Frost
October 20, 2024 (11:06 PM)

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Six games in to the regular season, it's clear that the Edmonton Oilers must alter their course of action to remain competitive in the pacific division.

After losing the conference final rematch to the Dallas Stars, the Oilers have swiftly fallen to 2-4 record and find themselves at the bottom of the division. Everything from goaltending, 5v5, defence, offensive production, and special teams have been lacking. During a recent interview, head coach Kris Knoblauch indicated that the team will be making some big moves ahead of their tough schedule.

According to Liam McCormick of Oilers Daily, McDavid and Draisaitl, as well as the rest of the Oilers first and only powerplay unit, have not been able to execute with the advantage. The powerplay should be the team's greatest strength, but they've only connected for one goal so far this year. Now, Coach Knoblauch is saying change will be coming.

Knoblauch knows that as long as the powerplay isn't effective, the Oilers may have trouble winning games. If he's looking to make a change to the powerplay, it could be with their game plan or with their personnel.

If Edmonton wants to add another premium offensive threat to the powerplay, they need to consider removing Ryan Nugent-Hopkins in favour of Jeff Skinner.
-Liam McCormick, Oilers Daily

Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch also disclosed that the Oilers top players have been looking «out of sync». For whatever the reason, the Oilers record breaking power play is struggling to connect, limiting their overall chances to win close games.

Captain Connor McDavid and superstar Leon Draisaitl will be the first ones to tell you they need to perform better, but they also need the depth players to contribute up and down the lineup as well.

As it stands, it's looking like RNH will be removed from the starting power play unit to give the team a fresh look. Jeff Skinner is currently leading the team on 5 on 5 shots, and his scoring prowess could be exactly what the team needs when they take on a tough Carolina Hurricanes squad.

Do you think RNH should be taken off the power play? Answer out Oilers insider poll to have your say!