Oilers coach Knoblauch gives a major promotion to Corey Perry

In their last game against the Vegas Golden Knights, the Oilers lost a hard fought battle and missed an opportunity to tie the NHL record for most consecutive wins. Just one game after now, coach Knoblauch is back tinkering with the lines, this time making a big decision with Corey Perry. At practice today, Perry joined the second line with Leon Draisaitl and Evander Kane, and Warren Foegele was sent down to the third line.

It's a big show of confidence for the 38 year old forward after just two games with the Oilers. Moving Perry up in the lineup and getting chances with the higher skill players may help to tap into his offensive abilities. Perry has a great net-front touch similar to Zach Hyman, and that could be well utilized with Leon Draisaitl specifically.

More so, the Oilers could be trying Perry in the second line momentarily to see what they have before the trade deadline, where they've been heavily rumoured to be in on top six forwards. Before making a big splash in a trade, it makes sense to see your internal options first.


Perry hasn't registered a point yet with the Oilers, but already seems to be a fantastic fit with the team. Hopefully this promotion can unlock the most from Perry, and the worm will be in prime condition heading into the playoffs.