Insider reveals Edmonton Oilers may also scratch Corey Perry

Sam Carrick has missed the last few games with an undisclosed injury, but tonight will be a game time decision. Perry still took line rushes this morning, but Evander Kane was also absent from practice, and Perry could've been a placeholder. Friedman believes that if Carrick is ready to play tonight, Perry will be the odd man out.

Now 39 years old, time is simply catching up to Corey Perry. He's been known for being an elite playoff performer throughout his career, but he's slowed down to the point where he's been in and out of the lineup since the first round. When he's in the lineup Perry can still contribute, but Carrick's youth, speed, and physicality could make a difference against the Panthers.

Along with scratching a 768 game veteran in Cody Ceci, Kris Knoblauch has shown he isn't afraid to make changes with big-name players, and his decision have often paid off. After taking over the team nearly in last place and leading them this far as a rookie coach, Knoblauch has earned the benefit of the doubt in any coaching decision.

The Oilers may miss Perry's experience and pest play between the whistles, the move to get more speed and physicality with Carrick, Foegele, and Desharnais in the lineup feels like the right decision. Tonight they'll be hoping to tie up the series heading back to Edmonton, where they could really taking a commanding series lead with their home ice advantage.