Kris Knoblauch finally breaks silence on Jeff Skinner’s relegation to the 4th line

Edmonton Oilers forward Jeff Skinner has been a focal point for the organization the past few weeks, being relegated to 4th line and playing limited minutes.

After last night’s 3-1 victory over the Ottawa Senators, Edmonton Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch made himself available for his usual post game interviews, directly addressing Jeff Skinner’s situation.

Kris Knoblauch comments on Jeff Skinner

According to Oilers Daily, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins missed last night’s game with illness, but Jeff Skinner still played on the fourth line, and less than 12 minutes.

When asked directly what Skinner has to do to earn more ice time and opportunity up the lineup, Knoblauch said he needs to play well, and that a chance may come later this season.

REPORTER: What does [Jeff Skinner] have to do to earn that extra ice time?

KNOBLAUCH: Play good hockey. I look at our team, and who is he elevating? We got a lot of guys who are playing really well right now Tonight I thought was a good game from him.

You could tell Kris Knoblauch approached his answer with a certain degree of caution, but was extremely blunt at the same time.

Simply, Jeff Skinner needs to start producing offensively before top 6 consideration.

Many hockey enthusiasts thought last night’s game against was a perfect opportunity for Jeff Skinner to earn increased ice-time on the power play, but Knoblauch ultimately gave the upper hand to Viktor Arvidsson.

Oilers could trade Skinner

He currently holds a one year $3,000,000 deal but contains a full no movement clause. Bowman along with Oilers management will need to work to convince him to move his salary by taking on retention and willing to move is no movement clause.
-Oilers Daily

Personally, its tough to say wether or not Skinner would be interested moving, but waiving his NMC and embracing a change of scenery could help spark his offensive groove.