Oilers coach Knoblauch makes two significant lineup moves

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Liam McCormick
January 9, 2024 (1:31 PM)

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As the Oilers got on the ice today ahead of their game against the Chicago Blackhawks tonight, head coach Kris Knoblauch clearly was made a few key lineup decisions. Oilers beat reporter Tony Brar shared the lines from the morning skate.

Notably, Connor Brown earned himself a promotion to the third line, up from the fourth line. He's recently had a few good games, notably on the California road trip, so Knoblauch is clearly rewarding him with a greater responsibility and more ice time. In the previous few games, Brown has averaged well less than 14 minutes of ice time, but also has two assists in the last 5 games. Now, he could get much more opportunity on the third line, especially with Evander Kane as a line mate.

Also of note, veteran and fan-favourite Sam Gagner still isn't able to get into the lineup after returning from suffering concussion-like symptoms after taking a stick to the face. In Gagner's absence, the fourth line has been clicking, and the team has now won 7 straight games. Last week, Knoblauch noted that Gagner wouldn't get back into the lineup until he had a reason to, and seeing the team on this run of success, Knoblauch is sticking to his decision and holding Gagner out yet again.

Hopefully, these lineup moves will continue the string of success and give a boost to Connor Brown's confidence, hopefully reviving him for the last half of the season.