Oilers insider suggests last lineup was showcase for a potential trade
Photo credit: Perry Nelson - Imagn Images
According to reports, based on recent lineup developments the Edmonton Oilers could be close to making a trade.
Ryan Rishaug of the Got Yer' Back podcast wondered if this was perhaps a sign the Oilers are giving a final look to a couple of pieces before roster decisions need to be made. Alec Regula is reportedly nearing a return and Zach Hyman is getting close. If Stecher is going to be sent down or traded, Rishaug theorized that maybe the Oilers want to give him a fair shake before making a decision on his future.
As for what it means that Philp wasn't in the lineup, Rob Brown wasn't sold that Philp makes the Oilers when everyone is back and healthy.
As for what it means that Philp wasn't in the lineup, Rob Brown wasn't sold that Philp makes the Oilers when everyone is back and healthy.
Coach sits-out forward in favour of extra defenseman
Typically, the Oilers deploy a 12-6 formation, preferring to not have the odd man, whether on defense and offense. The last two games however - last night against the Rangers and Tuesday against the Mammoth, Kris Knoblauch opted for an 11-7 lineup.
The 7th defenseman was Troy Stecher, whom many believe was in the lineup to either get another look, showcase him for a potential trade, or both, while the coach chose to sit-out Noah Philip, who's been quite effective of late.
Edmonton has yet to find consistency in the win column this year, and for several reasons. Goaltending, of course, is what many expected it would be - not good enough. Lack of scoring is another reason, with primary and secondary scoring a step-behind so far this season.
Then there's the defense, which, on any given night, has made mistakes which have resulted in goals against, notwithstanding the 2 goals from Nurse and 2 assists from Walman last night versus the Rangers.
There is little doubt that a trade is forthcoming, though in what area of the lineup is uncertain, given the team's many needs. And with the imminent return of forward Hyman and defenseman Alec Regula, it's anybody's guess.
You can rest assured, however, that GM Stan Bowman has a plan for a trade, or trades; it won't be long before it's realized, I'm sure.
| POLL | ||
OCTOBRE 31 | 513 ANSWERS Oilers insider suggests last lineup was showcase for a potential trade Do you believe Troy Stecher is being showcased for a possible trade? | ||
| yes | 425 | 82.8 % |
| no | 88 | 17.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
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