Oilers experiments with new lines to prepare for playoffs

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Noel Drolet
March 29, 2024 (3:17 PM)

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Ahead of tomorrow's matinee game against the Anaheim Ducks, the lines at practice have been changed again.

First off, Sam Carrick is back in the lineup on the fourth line. This is definitely a great choice, as Carrick has been good in his sheltered role. Carrick has showed promise and all you can ask of a fourth liner is to be independently strong on defense, which he has delivered on. Carrick should definitely be in the lineup going forward if he continues to play well.

The next note is that Brown has been scratched again. This is a terrible move, as Brown has looked very good in his recent games since he broke his goalless streak. This scratch is an awful decision as it could fully ruin the momentum and confidence he's building back up. He should easily have a permanent spot on the fourth or even third line, and one of Janmark or Ryan should be out instead of him.

Lastly, it's reported that Ceci is out dealing with an illness and is a game time decision. This is exactly why picking up Stecher was a fantastic pickup at the deadline, as it offers a lot of flexibility for the lineup. Stecher is penciled in on the first line (which may be only due to Ceci possibly returning for the game) and I think that may be a mistake.

This game against Anaheim is not a must-win for the Oilers, so it's good that they're trying different things to see what works best. Seeing players like Stecher and Carrick back in the lineup offers promise and hopefully it can help solidify the best lineup for the team, come playoffs.