Struggling Oilers' Forward Continues Disappointing Season
The Edmonton Oilers probably wish they didn't sign this free agent forward.
EDMONTON -- Things have come to a head.
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The Edmonton Oilers made a roster decision that seems to be the beginning of the end for one new player.
After months of speculation based on usage and "just play good hockey" comments, the Oilers have made a bold roster move.
Speaking to the media before their game against the Anaheim Ducks, head coach Kris Knoblauch revealed a roster change that could extend beyond tonight's game.
"Derek Ryan is gonna play," Knoblauch revealed. When asked who would come out, he replied, "Jeff Skinner is out."
The move is surprising. No other high-profile player on the Oilers has been a healthy scratch during Knoblauch's tenure with the team.
To those who were paying attention, the writing was on the wall. The temperature in the room reached a boiling point when Knoblauch said that Skinner needed to "just play good hockey" when asked what he could do to get more ice time.
Obviously, Skinner hasn't satisfied that requirement.
Skinner has scored at least 20 goals in 10 of his 15 NHL seasons. That should warrant him an extended look in the top-six. He only spent 34 minutes on a line with Leon Draisaitl and Viktor Arvidsson, 30 minutes with Connor McDavid and Zach Hyman, but 92 minutes with Adam Henrique and Connor Brown.
Through 35 games, the winger has 12 points, half of which are goals. He is on pace for 28 points, which would be his lowest point total since the 2020-21 season. Skinner collected 14 points in 53 games that year with the Buffalo Sabres.
The Oilers are making quite a statement by putting Skinner in the press box. He is no stranger to scoring goals, but they need to utilize him properly. However, an unproven quantity (who works hard) has taken his spot in the lineup.
All eyes will be on Edmonton to see where things with Skinner go next.
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