Edmonton Oilers coach and GM not on the same page, analyst says

The Oilers came out strong in the first two periods of the game, taking a 5-3 lead into the third period. In the final frame, they looked lucky to hold on to the lead before burying their empty net chances.

Oilers analyst Bruce Curlock highlighted the major difference in play between the first two periods and the final frame. Earlier in the game, the Oilers played with more speed, aggression, utilizing short passes - and then reverted to a heavily defensive posture in the 3rd that nearly cost them.

In the third period, the Oilers began relying on another method of Knoblauch's that's drawn extensive criticism: the stretch pass. Leaving the defence out to dry with difficult passes, the Oilers became hemmed in their own zone all through the third.

Frankly, the Oilers should be able to stick to their strengths and beat a team like Anaheim. They're not built to just play defensively.

Other Oilers analysts have noted this stark difference, and suggest that Knoblauch is coaching the team in a way that's just not congruent with how GM Bowman has built the roster.

Instead, the Oilers are just barely above water in controlling high-danger scoring chances at even strength.

Considering Bowman didn't hire Knoblauch and has no obligation to him, if there's any major disappointments in the postseason, a coaching change will be a natural conclusion.

With these trends present through the entire season, it'll be the right one. The Coach needs to deploy the team in a way that matches the strengths the GM has acquired.

Also read on Edmonton Hockey Daily :
NHL insiders link Oilers to trading for Maple Leafs' Alberta-native forward