Multiple former Oilers off to hot starts with new teams, raising doubt on Coach Knoblauch

Of course, there is much to factor-in when comparing a player's performance with one team and another. It's easy to say the former-coach didn't get the most from his players. Maybe, maybe not.

Some players may thrive in different tactical systems, or roles; or a player's growth and maturity can occur after they leave a team; while a change in teammates and locker room environment can boost a player's performances as well, to name only a few reasons.

Having said this, it doesn't change the fact that three ex-Oilers are having good seasons thus far. Victor Arvidsson, now with the Boston Bruins, has scored 4G in his last six games, and has 7 points. Last year, he'd recorded 27 points over 67 games.

Corey Perry has scored 5G and 3A with his new club the LA Kings, and is a plus-5, in only 8 games played, a pace of 82 points over an entire 82-game season. Last year, Corey recorded 30 points in 81 games.

Finally, Connor Brown is on pace to record 45 points over an 82 game schedule with his 5G and 1A scored with the New Jersey Devils. Last season, he posted 13 goals and 30 points in 82 games with Edmonton.

Again, though it's possible that Knoblauch contributed in some way, shape, or form in not getting the best from the former-players, his record since joining the Oilers suggests otherwise.

After Knoblauch replaced Jay Woodcroft early in the 2023-24 season, the Oilers went from a 3-9-1 record to 48-16-5 under his leadership. He led the team to two straight Stanley Cup Final appearances in 2024 and 2025.

In October 2025, the Oilers extended Knoblauch's contract through the 2028-29 season, signaling confidence in his coaching ability. He's 100-52-14 over his Oilers' career.