Ty Emberson reunites with coach Kris Knoblauch at Edmonton Oilers

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Sam Jones
August 23, 2024 (7:49)

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In a move that seems to underscore the tight-knit nature of the hockey world, Ty Emberson has joined the Edmonton Oilers, reuniting with his former coach Kris Knoblauch.

The young defenseman was recently traded from the San Jose Sharks, marking a significant step in his professional career.

Emberson, originally drafted by the Arizona Coyotes in the third round of the 2018 entry draft, has journeyed through several teams, including a stint at the Hartford Wolf Pack, the AHL affiliate of the New York Rangers. It was there he first played under Knoblauch but struggled to secure a regular spot due to the depth of talent within the Rangers' ranks.

Reflecting on his path through the ranks and his time in Hartford, Emberson noted the small-world nature of hockey and the lasting impact of early experiences.

«It just proves the point that hockey is a very, very small worldthe way you prepare yourself in one situation my help in another,»

Emberson said.

After a trade from the Coyotes to the Rangers involving Patrick Nemeth and two 2022 draft picks, Emberson found his way to the Sharks before landing with the Oilers, where he is expected to play a significant role. Known for his right-hand shot, Emberson's addition is timely, especially as he steps in to fill the void left by Phillip Broberg.

Emberson's admiration for Knoblauch is palpable. He praises his coach's communication skills and confidence in his players, qualities that have evidently resonated with the defenseman.

«I loved my time with Kris. He's very good at understanding players and communicating with us. He didn't want us (defencemen) to chip it out or rim it around the boards. He wanted us making plays. And Steve was awesome as our D coach. We hit it off, same ideas as Knobber, make plays, don't play scared.»

As the Oilers navigate through a tumultuous period of trades and roster changes, Emberson's presence is seen as a stabilizing factor for the team's defense. His relationship with Knoblauch could be a key element in his success and integration into the Oilers lineup as they look to solidify their defensive strategies moving forward.

Emberson's journey back to his old mentor in a new setting is more than just a trade-it's a homecoming of sorts, promising a fresh start under familiar guidance. As the Oilers continue to shape their team dynamics, the Emberson-Knoblauch reunion will undoubtedly be one to watch.

Source: Edmonton Journal

'I loved my time with Kris': Ty Emberson praises Oilers' coach Knoblauch after trade to Edmonton