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Oilers Head Coach Instantly Rewarded For Gutsy Lineup Decision Against Top Team

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Graham Montgomery
December 7, 2023  (6:36 PM)
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The Edmonton Oilers found themselves in an unusual situation where they had five consecutive days off between games. Outside of the all-star break, such a gap between games is virtually unheard of in the NHL. Head Coach Chris Knoblauch decided to try an interesting move to help his team perform well after so much rest.

Knoblauch Makes Bold Lineup Decision Against Carolina Hurricanes

While the Hurricanes have not been playing great by their high standards, they are still second place in their division. They are not a team that should be taken lightly. Head coach Chris Knoblauch made an interesting move when he decided to start the Oiler's 3rd line against them last night. Considering the fact that the team has Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl as options to start the game, the move surprised everyone. The Hurricanes were caught napping to start as Ryan Mcleod put the Oilers up just 30 seconds into the contest.

Then Mattias Ekholm added to the lead just seconds later.

It ended up being a historic start to the game as this was the second fastest time the team has ever scored 2 goals in franchise history.

Fastest 2 goals to begin a game: Oilers history

March 28, 1982 :24 (Messier & Lumley)
Wednesday :41 (McLeod & Ekholm)
April 4, 1987 :42 (Kent Nilsson scored twice)

Oilers Continue Hot Streak As They Look Poised For The Playoffs

The Oilers still have a long way to go if they want to make the playoffs. They are currently 10-12-1, 12 points back of the Canucks for the 3rd spot in the Pacific division. However, the team is 7-3 over their last ten games and they have now won five in a row.

The vibes in Edmonton. 📈📈📈

Watch the Oilers and Canes live on Sportsnet One and stream on Sportsnet+ 📺

As the Sportsnet X account posted, the vibes in Edmonton are rapidly skyrocketing. The team may have been a bit premature in firing Jay Woodcroft, but the move seems to be working out as the Oilers have suddenly found their groove. At this point is seems like only a matter of time before they are in a playoff position. Perhaps they can be the next St. Louis Blues and win a cup after a horrific start to the season.

As seen on Oilers coach Knoblauch makes a gutsy decision with the team

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Oilers Head Coach Instantly Rewarded For Gutsy Lineup Decision Against Top Team

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