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Oilers Head Coach Decides to Bench Veteran Following Lackluster Performance

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Elliot Ben Jacob
February 18, 2024  (6:37 PM)
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Edmonton Oilers' Coach Kris Knoblauch
Photo credit: NHL

In a decisive encounter yesterday, the Edmonton Oilers secured a victory against the formidable Dallas Stars, showcasing their resilience and strategic acumen. Coach Knoblauch, known for his dynamic approach to team management, significantly shuffled the team's lineup before this crucial match.

Continuing his proactive adjustments, Knoblauch has made a notable decision during today's practice in Arizona, signaling a strategic shift for the upcoming game against the Coyotes.

Unexpected Bench: Connor Brown to Sit Out Next Game

In a move that has caught many by surprise, Connor Brown is slated to be benched as a healthy scratch for tomorrow's game against the Arizona Coyotes. This decision follows a period of underperformance from Brown, who has yet to score a goal this season.

His recent performance, particularly a lackluster defensive effort that contributed to a goal for the Stars, has prompted Coach Knoblauch to take action.

The composition of the Oilers' lines for the upcoming match will otherwise mirror the lineup seen against Dallas. Holloway is set to return to the lineup after recovering from an illness, replacing Brown on the fourth line, with Gagner also stepping in to fill the vacancy.

Performance Concerns and Financial Implications

Connor Brown's season has been notably disappointing, with a glaring absence of goals across 44 games. His substantial $3.225M salary, combined with a lackluster defensive effort, has intensified scrutiny on his role within the team.

Recent speculation from Oilers writer Jason Gregor suggests that the team might consider trading Brown to alleviate salary pressures and enhance the roster.

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Despite the potential move, the Oilers would remain responsible for Brown's bonus next year, adding a layer of complexity to any decision regarding his future with the team.

This scenario underscores the challenges faced by the Oilers as they navigate the competitive landscape of the NHL, balancing performance expectations with financial constraints.

As Read on OilersDaily - Oilers coach Knoblauch scratches veteran player after embarrassing effort

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Oilers Head Coach Decides to Bench Veteran Following Lackluster Performance

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