Oilers coach Knoblauch rips team's effort in final preseason game
Photo credit: Imagn Images
Oilers' head coach Kris Knoblauch was not very happy with his team, including the veteran players in the lineup for their last preseason game versus the Canucks, one which Edmonton lost 3-2 in overtime.
During a post-game interview, Kris Knoblauch summed-up the loss quite succinctly:
The first period we were a little sleepy, the second period was our best period and the third period we were back to being sloppy.
We were giving up the puck too much, especially in the offensive zone, just inside the blue line. It really fed their transition. Then you have to defend.
But it's exhibition, the last one, fortunately. Now we get to the regular season and the intensity should ramp up.
- Coach Knoblauch
We were giving up the puck too much, especially in the offensive zone, just inside the blue line. It really fed their transition. Then you have to defend.
But it's exhibition, the last one, fortunately. Now we get to the regular season and the intensity should ramp up.
- Coach Knoblauch
Indeed, preseason games don't count in the standings; but they are an opportunity to assess the team and make adjustments where needed before the season-opener get under way tomorrow night at Rogers Place.
The lineup from last night's game is as close to the one Knoblauch will ice tomorrow against Calgary, except for Stuart Skinner, who missed the game due to an illness that's been circulating in the Oilers dressing room.
Skinner has played in just two pre-season games, but that will have to suffice to get him ready for opening night, though Calvin Pickard did an admirable job in net, despite the overtime loss.
On a more personal note, Vasily Podkolzin, himself a former-Canuck player, was able to dress for the game after his trip home to Russia following the sudden passing of his father.
On behalf on Oilers Daily, we pass our deepest sympathies and condolences to the Podkolzin family.
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