Oilers HC Kris Knoblauch makes his feelings known about Zach Hyman's $4,350,000 linemate's recent performances

Edmonton Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch praised Zach Hyman, Mattias Janmark and Kasperi Kapanen for their recent performances. After the Oilers' 3-2 win over the Anaheim Ducks on Friday, Knoblauch discussed the impact of this new third line. He believes they add important balance to the team’s scoring depth.

Knoblauch also noted the growing chemistry within the Hyman-Janmark-Kapanen line. Hyman’s scoring complements Janmark’s defense and Kapanen’s versatility. Kapanen, who was claimed from the St. Louis Blues in November, has been a valuable addition.

"I think any line that Janmark's a part of right now has been a good line. No matter who he's been with, on the right side, left side, middle. Janmark has been playing really well," Knoblauch said.

Mattias Janmark, who signed a three-year, $4.35 million contract on July 1, has played a key role this season. He often fills new positions as needed, including playing center against the Ducks.

Zach Hyman has been a key goal scorer for the Oilers in December, scoring 10 goals. Playing alongside Mattias Janmark and Kasperi Kapanen can be helpful in January. This line offers balance, with Hyman adding scoring. Coach Kris Knoblauch praised Janmark’s puck protection, speed and playmaking.

"Janmark's overall game is exceptional," Knoblauch said (via NHL on Friday)." The one thing that may be missing is the goal scoring, but his points-per-60 at five-on-five is among the best on our team. He's doing everything defensively, skates really well, and especially right now, he's good at protecting the puck. He's tremendous defensively and playing really well."

Janmark has one goal and 13 assists in 37 games. However, his five-on-five points-per-60-minutes rank among the team’s best.

Mattias Janmark's team-first mindset and key contributions to Oilers' success

Mattias Janmark discussed his team-first mindset when asked about playing different positions. He said the decision isn’t his but emphasized doing his best wherever the coach needs him.

"At the end of the day, it's not up to me [where I play], so you gotta play where the coach tells you to play and try to make the most of it and do the best you can to give your team the best chance to win," he said (via NHL on Friday).

"And right now that's playing centre, so I don't try to think about that much at all. Just try to play my game, skate a lot and take good care of the puck and all that."

The line’s strong performance against Anaheim showed Knoblauch’s adjustments. The Edmonton Oilers (23-12-3) will play the Seattle Kraken (17-19-3) on Saturday at 10 p.m. EST.