Oilers coach Knoblauch updates Mattias Ekholm status, takes heat for questionable scratch

Additionally, Knoblauch provided an update on the health status of defenceman Mattias Ekholm, after previously confirming that he could be shut down temporarily to heal from illness.

At practice today, the Oilers revealed their lines will be the same as last time out, with the exception of Jake Walman in the lineup over Cam Dineen.

Both Mattias Ekholm and John Klingberg have been ruled out of tonight's lineup, and Coach Knoblauch confirmed that injury is the cause.

Not only is Ekholm dealing with an illness that's gone back to January, he is also healing from a minor injury. It's a possibility he joins the team for their upcoming road trip.

Finally, Oilers fans are giving Coach Knoblauch some heat over his continued decision to scratch veteran forward Jeff Skinner, especially after the trade deadline.

After reportedly asking him to waive his no-move clause and Skinner denying, it's clear he's set on competing for the Oilers this spring. Coach Knoblauch needs to find a way to fit him into the lineup.

At this point, there's no legitimate criticism on Skinner's play being ineffective compared to the rest of the team. Since January of this year, Skinner has been very productive in limited opportunities - it's time he gets more ice time.

The Oilers will have a tough test tonight against the Dallas Stars for their first game back from the deadline. It'll be exciting for Oilers fans to see their new addition quickly into the lineup, and hopefully making a difference for to earn a win.