Oilers Coach Says Only Two Scenarios Skinner Gets Look in Top 6

Edmonton Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch addressed Jeff Skinner’s role within the team after the winger was made a healthy scratch versus the Anaheim Ducks on Sunday. Skinner told the media Monday afternoon: “As a player, you focus on working hard and doing your job and getting better every day, trying to contribute to the team the best way you can.” Knoblauch seemed to suggest there’d be a chance for Skinner to contribute again but noted it would come with a few caveats.

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First, the coach suggested that Skinner rediscover his game to earn a more significant role in the lineup. Then, he suggested that won’t come at the expense of anyone else. Knoblauch admitted that Skinner could be more productive playing alongside teammates who complement his style, but his being put back in the lineup and in a place where he’s best utilized in the top six will depend on specific circumstances.

Skinner, who joined the Oilers after being bought out by the Buffalo Sabres in 2024, is no stranger to offensive success. He’s got a strong history of scoring in the NHL, but something isn’t clicking in Edmonton. There are concerns he’s never going to find his game, and even though his deployment suggests Skinner in the doghouse, Knoblauch seems to have faith the forward isn’t washed up.

Unfortunately, much of Skinner’s future with the Oilers is now out of his hands.

In What Scenarios Will Skinner Get Another Look with the Oilers?

Knoblauch pointed to two scenarios that could see Skinner moved up: injuries to current top-six forwards or a drop-off in performance from players like Vasily Podkolzin and Viktor Arvidsson.

The first would be an unfortunate turn of events for Edmonton. Their roster is getting back to full health, and being able to try different players and experiment with combinations is a nice option for the team. No one wants an injury to occur for any player, and it’s certainly not how Skinner wants to get back in.

Second, if either Podkolzin or Arvidsson struggle, that’s troubling for the Oilers as well. Arvidsson was signed to a free-agency deal, and the Oilers need him to be productive. Podkolzin has been a nice find, playing a style of hockey that not all Oilers are willing to play.

Knoblauch also praised the efforts of Kasperi Kapanen, Mattias Janmark, and Connor Brown, suggesting he’s not ready to mess with the depth within the Oilers’ forward group.

For now, Skinner’s opportunity in the top six hinges on injuries or underperformance elsewhere. That’s an issue since it’s no longer just about Skinner finding his game and being productive. Other things have to happen first before Skinner gets a second look.

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