Oilers coach Knoblauch gives last minute demotion and hints at incoming trade

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Liam McCormick
March 4, 2024 (10:38)

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With the trade deadline now this Friday, teams across the league are making roster moves that can give hints at upcoming trades. In yesterday's Oilers' game, coach Knoblauch made a roster move that is seeking to be a great hint towards their next trade. After warmup, Knoblauch demoted Ceci to the third pairing with Brett Kulak.

The demotion comes with rumours flying that Ceci could be on his way out as a cap casualty, and as the Oilers look to prioritize upgrading their defence. After the game, Knoblauch was pretty much unable to even explain the decision to demote Ceci - as it may have obviously been to get a better look at the top four without him.

In recent weeks the Oilers have moved off their targets of top six forwards and are believed to be prioritizing an upgrade on defence along with help in the bottom six. For defenceman, the Oilers have been linked to Alexandre Carrier, Sean Walker, Joel Edmunson, and previously, Chris Tanev. There was even reports that the Oilers made an offer for Christ Tanev that involved a first round draft pick and Ceci, but the Flames declined.

When he scored against his former team in the Pittsburgh Penguins last night, the Oilers celebrated a little extra for Ceci. If that was one of his final games as an Oiler, it was great he had one more good moment at home.