Edmonton Oilers set to lose top six forward for game 3 with injury

Coach Knoblauch said we would have to wait and find out during warmups for the starting lineup, but one hour ago the Oilers published a projected lineup.

Kane has been playing through sports hernia during the playoffs, and likely has sustained more injuries along the way. Knoblauch spoke recently explaining that if they have another player closer to 100% health that can contribute more than Kane, then he will be out of the lineup.

In this case, it seems to be Corey Perry who is the player closer to 100% health and who could contribute more than Evander Kane while seriously injured. Perry himself can bring a lot to the fourth line when he's playing his best game, and has countless experience in Stanley Cup Final situations.

Losing Evander Kane is a tough blow for the Oilers in a heated physical series against the Panthers. Through most of this playoffs, Kane hasn't been the power forward scoring threat that he can be. With only 1 assist in his last 9 playoff games, it's time the Oilers dress a healthier player.

Going down 3-0 tonight with a loss in Edmonton would almost certainly stomp out any chance for an Oilers comeback, but it's impossible to count this team out. Tonight's still nearly a must-win game if Edmonton wants to get back into this series.

Source: Edmonton Oilers