Oilers announce two healthy scratches that could change trade plans, lineups vs. Lightning

The Oilers have been significantly shaking up their lineup lately, but these two scratches to veteran players are significant in light of the trade deadline.

Coach Knoblauch got back to more regular pairings at practice too, with Zach Hyman back alongside Connor McDavid and Viktor Arvidsson on the first line. The Draisaitl line remains together, and Nuge continues to center his own third line. In this lineup, the Oilers are incredibly strong at center.

On defence, pairs remain the same with the exception of Troy Stecher entering the lineup in place of John Klingberg. The Swedish veteran defenceman had a poor game last time out and frankly deserved the scratch. On one goal against Washington, Klingberg was flailing in the defensive zone that led to a goal.

Klingberg has only played 7 games with the Oilers this season, and to his credit, has looked like a non-factor most times. However, if he's getting walked in the defensive zone like this, he'll be a non-option in the playoffs.

The Oilers have scratched Jeff Skinner consistently throughout the year, so it's no surprise that he's scratched again despite scoring last game. Jeff Skinner has said he will not waive his no move clause to leave the Oilers.

On the other hand, the Oilers may not have a choice hug to improve on John Klingberg. They've signed him with the hope he could fill the top 4 right hand defence role on a budget, but if he's being scratched after poor defensive efforts, it's an indication the Oilers aren't fully confident in him.

Earlier in the season the Oilers were mostly interested in acquiring an impact defenceman in trade. Troy Stecher has been better than expected, but with Klingberg's recent struggles, a trade may be back on the board.

The trade deadline is now just 10 days away, and it will be the most important deadline in the Connor McDavid era. The Oilers need to make the necessary improvements to give them the best shot at the Stanley Cup.