Oilers rookie forward absent, lines announced for tonight's game vs. Jets
Photo credit: Edmonton Oilers Raw
The Edmonton Oilers are on the ice for practice before tonight's game against the Winnipeg Jets, and it appears they've lost Connor Clattenburg.
The Oilers rookie forward has quickly become a fan favourite since being called up. Clattenburg rushed off the ice last game after taking a high stick, but the Coach indicated it wasn't a serious issue post-game. Unfortunately, now he's out of the lineup.
Oilers announce lines for tonight's game vs Winnipeg Jets
According to Oilers reporters at practice, Clattenburg did not join the team on the ice today. David Tomasek is expected to enter the lineup, and play on the 4th line in Clattenburg's absence.
It's tough to see Clattenburg fall out of the lineup, he still needs more time to develop in the AHL. He's only 20 years old - he'll be back in Edmonton another time as a better player.
Kasperi Kapanen will be nearing a return from injury soon, so it's possible Clattenburg could be sent down.
As for the rest of the Oilers lineup, nothing will change. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins will stay up on the top line, and Savoie on the second with Draisaitl. These combinations finally unlocked the Oilers offence for a blowout win vs. Seattle, and now they need to keep carrying that momentum.
Stuart Skinner will get the start in net tonight, going up against Thomas Milic as the Jets desk with goalie injuries.
Against a reeling Winnipeg Jets team, the Oilers will have a prime opportunity continue their current stretch of good play, and start making their way up the standings, and back toward looking ready for a deep playoff run.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 6 | 573 ANSWERS Oilers rookie forward absent, lines announced for tonight's game vs. Jets Do you think Clattenburg will be sent down to the AHL? | ||
| Yes | 297 | 51.8 % |
| No | 276 | 48.2 % |
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