Kris Knoblauch, head coach of the Edmonton Oilers, makes changes before game 2
Photo credit: NHL.com
Edmonton Oilers shake up lineup for game 2 showdown with Panthers, spotlight on Desharnais
Ahead of Monday night's critical game two against the Florida Panthers, Edmonton Oilers' head coach Kris Knoblauch has made a surprising adjustment to the team's lineup.
In a strategic move, Cody Ceci will be benched, marking a significant shift as Vincent Desharnais is set to take his place, pairing up with Darenell Nurse. This decision was hinted at during morning line rushes, indicating a new defensive strategy as the Oilers seek to recalibrate after their recent challenges.
« Vincent Desharnais will be back tonight. Cody Ceci looks like the odd man out. »
The Oilers' coaching staff is evidently tweaking their approach following a disappointing start in the playoffs. The inclusion of Desharnais is expected to bring a fresh dynamic to the team's defense, which has been under scrutiny.
Observers have noted the Oilers' defensive struggles, particularly against high-caliber teams like the Panthers, who exploited weaknesses effectively in game one.
« Nurse with Desharnais at practice for Game 2.
Ceci could be scratched for the first time as an Oiler.
Lines are as follows:
RNH-McDavid-Hyman
Henrique-Draisaitl-Holloway
Foegele-McLeod-Perry
Janmark-Carrick-Brown
Kane's status for Game 2 is unknown at this point. »
Ceci could be scratched for the first time as an Oiler.
Lines are as follows:
RNH-McDavid-Hyman
Henrique-Draisaitl-Holloway
Foegele-McLeod-Perry
Janmark-Carrick-Brown
Kane's status for Game 2 is unknown at this point. »
Criticism has been pointed particularly towards the pairing of Ceci and Nurse, with fans and analysts alike suggesting that previous strategies in the playoffs were more effective.
« Watch how many times teams exploit that pairing. It's a set play. Dump it into Ceci's corner and watch Nurse mentally malfunction. Avs did it. Vegas did it. They aren't learning. Go back to the pairings from game 4, 5, and 6. It's okay to admit you f**ked up. »
As the Oilers gear up for game two, all eyes will be on Desharnais and Nurse to see if this new defensive pairing can withstand the Panthers' offensive onslaught. The Oilers' lineup changes reflect a larger tactical adjustment as they aim for a rebound performance to even the series.
The outcome of this game could be pivotal in setting the tone for the remainder of the series, testing the resilience and adaptability of Knoblauch's squad. Will this be the turning point for the Oilers in their pursuit of playoff success?
| POLL | ||
10 JUIN | 29 ANSWERS Kris Knoblauch, head coach of the Edmonton Oilers, makes changes before game 2 Will these lineup changes help the Oilers win their first game of the series? | ||
| Yes | 8 | 27.6 % |
| No, Florida is too good | 19 | 65.5 % |
| No, more changes are needed | 2 | 6.9 % |
| LIST OF POLLS | ||
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