Oilers Coach Hints Towards Waivers Plan with Extra Forward on NHL Roster
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Photo credit: Edmonton Oilers RAW
The Edmonton Oilers are currently carrying a 13th forward on their NHL roster, but Coach Knoblauch recently hinted that no one will be placed on waivers in the coming weeks.
The Oilers have been following a pattern of roster moves to accrue as much daily cap space as possible, which includes not carrying an extra forward.
However, the Oilers seem to be deviating from this strategy for the time being. Knoblauch's final comments to the media before yesterday's game seemed to confirm that the Oilers won't risk losing someone on waivers.
»I see the group of 13 we have right now and everyone brings something that's very valuable to our team. I wouldn't want to lose anybody We got some decisions to make, but right now, I can't think of our team wanting to risk losing anybody.»
- Coach Knoblauch
- Coach Knoblauch
The Oilers bench boss also referenced the scratching of veteran Derek Ryan, saying that although he's out of the lineup now, he will be brought back into the lineup soon.
Oilers Coach Knoblauch Says Team Will Carry 13 Forwards, Not Waiving Anyone
Knoblauch is right to point out that every forward on the team currently can bring a talent that could keep them in the lineup.
It may have been possible that the Oilers could place Kasperi Kapanen on waivers if he wasn't able to fit with the team, but he's carved out a decent role and brings an element of speed the Oilers desperately need.
The Oilers are making the choice to retain all their 13 NHL forwards and pay the price with the daily cap hit.
It could really be the best decision for the players personally, instead of sending down a player like Derek Ryan to the AHL over the break.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 20 | 155 ANSWERS Oilers Coach Hints Towards Waivers Plan with Extra Forward on NHL Roster Do you think the Oilers should keep 13 forwards, or send one down for cap space? | ||
| Keep 13 forwards | 62 | 40 % |
| Send one down for salary cap space | 93 | 60 % |
| List of polls | ||
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