The Edmonton Oilers face off against the Dallas Stars in Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals. With the Stars leading the series 2-1, Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch has reportedly decided to shake things up.
Part of the shake comes in the form of lineup changes. In are Ryan McLeod, Corey Perry, and Philip Broberg. Out are Warren Foegele, Sam Carrick, and Vinny Desharnais, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman confirmed.
With Perry and McLeod joining Leon Draisaitl on the second line, fans have shown some choice reactions to this move. Here’s a look at what fans have to say about the Oilers’ shakeup:
This comment stated simply:
This fan didn’t hold anything back:
Here’s a fan whose sarcasm hit the roof:
But, not all fans were negative regarding their thoughts. Here are some fans who seemed supportive of the Edmonton Oilers’ lineup changes:
This fan showed their support:
"Armchair quarterbacks. Go Oilers… Heart is everything."
Another fan offered some helpful lineup advice:
"Henrique deserves top 6."
Another fan believes Brett Kulak deserves more credit:
"Kulak should have been the number one guy all year."
The Edmonton Oilers head into Game 4 with a lot on the line. A win evens the series going back to Texas. A loss puts the Oilers in trouble, down 3-1. Edmonton Oilers fans hope the shakeup is enough to even up the series.
Edmonton Oilers captain stands up for teammate
Darnell Nurse has been the subject of speculation and criticism this postseason. Nurse has registered two assists in 15 playoff games. However, the most glaring statement is his minus-12. The fact that Nurse leads the league in that department has set off all sorts of speculation.
Oilers captain McDavid spoke to the media before Game 4 and addressed Nurse's form. Here’s what he had to say, according to Sportsnet:
"Nursey, he’s a big piece of our room. Plus/minus, whatever. It’s a funny statement. He gives us everything he’s got, he always has for a long time. I expect him to have a great one tonight."
Nurse slid into the second pairing with Brett Kulak. Kulak moves over to his weak side as rookie Broberg slotted in to play with veteran Cody Ceci in the warmups.
The Oilers hope Nurse can find an answer to his struggles. Now would be the best time to do so.