Oilers coach Knoblauch has amazing explanation for putting Corey Perry with Connor McDavid

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Liam McCormick
February 17, 2024 (4:43 PM)

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For this afternoon's game against the Dallas Stars, the Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch put the forward lines in the blender, with the most notable decision being moving Corey Perry to the top line along with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Just weeks into his time with the Oilers, it's a big assignment for the 38 year old forward coming off a two month layoff, but Knoblauch had a great explanation for the decision - and it paid off early.

Knoblauch explained the decision as trying to take advantage of Perry's net front presence and soft hands, and that those traits would compliment McDavid and Draisaitl well. Knoblauch was clearly right, as Corey Perry recorded a goal and an assist today.

He compliments those guys really well, and obviously he's not going to play the same minutes as Connor and Leon, but I think he adds that element of net presence, but also being able to break the puck out and getting those guys the puck.

Corey Perry has now begun to settle in with the Oilers and return to playing his game at the highest level again, now with 2 goals and 3 points in the last two games. After a disappointing effort against the St. Louis Blues, Knoblauch's decisions clearly paid off in a tight overtime win today.