Edmonton Oilers Drop Roster Hints Ahead of Game Against the Jets
As the preseason starts to come to a close, the Edmonton Oilers prepare for their second-to-last game vs. Winnipeg. Led by a new captain at Thursday’s practice, Edmonton tested new combinations and readied for the Jets.
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, who fell sick Thursday, was not on the ice. Brandon Davidson returned to practice and skated on a pairing with Darnell Nurse. Kris Versteeg’s status is unknown, but he appears to be day-to-day.
Here are the line combinations at the morning skate:
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Forwards:
Milan Lucic-Connor McDavid-Jordan Eberle
Benoit Pouliot-Leon Draisaitl-Jesse Puljujarvi
Patrick Maroon-Drake Caggiula-Nail Yakupov
Tyler Pitlick-Mark Letestu-Zack Kassian
Defense:
Oscar Klefbom-Adam Larsson
Andrej Sekera-Matt Benning
Griffin Reinhart-Eric Gryba
Darnell Nurse-Brandon Davidson (likely scratched)
Goalies:
Expect Cam Talbot to start, with Jonas Gustavsson backing up. This is subject to change based on the direction Edmonton decides to go in net.
Important Notes:
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Puck Prose 1 dEdmonton Oilers F Connor McDavid Named Team Captain
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– This is McDavid’s first game with the “C” on his jersey. Expect it to be a great one for him, and the first example of his official on-ice leadership.
– Tyler Pitlick replaces an injured Matt Hendricks on the fourth line, meaning that he could win the spot on the opening night roster. Although it appears to be between him and Anton Slepyshev right now, if you ask me, Pitlick’s proven himself ready for his long-awaited chance in the NHL.
– Draisaitl returns to the middle, and Caggiula currently slots in as the third-line centre. Edmonton attempted to put Draisaitl at the wing during practice earlier this week, but that combination did not hold for Tuesday’s game against Anaheim. This means that Caggiula could stick around and win a roster spot, but may be moved down and take Letestu’s place on the fourth line.
– It’s Yakupov’s birthday, but also a day where he has to prove his worth. The Russian winger has not impressed so far during camp and is at risk of losing his roster spot. Versteeg and Jesse are making stronger pushes and are proving much more than Yak. If he can’t shine in the opportunities he’s given, expect him to watch from the press box.
– In addition, Benning gets a chance at the top four. He played a solid, physical game against the Ducks, and is a dark horse for the last roster spot. While Gryba appears more ready to win that spot, Benning could end up stealing it, if he proves himself alongside Sekera.
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