Oilers new top line finds their chemistry in preseason game vs. Canucks

The Oilers are beginning the year with McDavid and Draisaitl loaded up in the top line, with Trent Frederic as the right winger. Fans had some reservations about the idea, and Frederic didn't look good in the first game - but that's begun to turn around.

The Oilers top line was absolutely dominated and accounted for all 4 of the Oilers goals. McDavid and Draisaitl were skating circles around their competition as usual, and most importantly, Frederic found success in the role he needs to play.

Crashing the net front to create traffic, Frederic got into position and buried his chance for the Oilers' second goal of the night.

While Zach Hyman is out with injury, the Oilers will essentially want Frederic to best replicate Hyman's usual role on the first line - crashing the net, forechecking hard, and retrieving pucks for the stars.

Coach Knoblauch laid that out very clearly in his post-game comments, and commended Frederic for playing his role perfectly.

Without Hyman for the first month of the season, Frederic's success on the top line with be critical for the Oilers to avoid another slow start - and to impress McDavid if he remains unsigned.

Frederic needs to keep up this effort, and he'll pot many more goals while he's on the top line this season. Hopefully they continue to find their groove in the final preseason games.