Edmonton Oilers confirm lines for Conference Final, with one forward absent

The Oilers switched up their likes again in the back half of the Vegas series, splitting up McDavid and Draisaitl on separate lines, which will continue into the third round.

According to Oilers reporters at practice in Edmonton, the team will be running back the same lineup as their last game. Forward Connor Brown was absent from practice, which cause Viktor Arvidsson to take the third line assignment at practice.

The defence pairings also project to remain the same. Ty Emberson was being benched in the opening 8 games of the playoffs, but since the team added Troy Stecher, they've found a perfect balance of minutes on the blue line.

The team also projects to add Mattias Ekholm back into the lineup after Game 2. With how well the defence is clicking, the Oilers may instead opt for a lineup with 11 forwards and 7 defenceman.

Oilers coach Knoblauch clarified that Connor Brown was only absent for maintenance, and is expected to play Game 1. He's likely just nursing a minor injury.

It's notable to see Kapanen still in the lineup after scoring a series clinching goal. Previously a healthy scratch, Kapanen impacted the game with his speed and tenacity, and deserves to keep playing.

The Oilers third round is expected to begin sometime this week, obviously dependant on the Jets and Stars series. Edmonton will take this time to prepare and practice, and will be fully locked in for Game 1.