As the Edmonton Oilers gear up for the pivotal Game 5, head coach Kris Knoblauch addressed the media at Amerant Bank Arena, highlighting the team’s preparation, key contributions from players, and the collective mindset heading into the game.
When asked about Paul Coffey’s influence, Knoblauch was unequivocal in his praise. “Paul’s been great for our group,” he said. Coffey’s role extends beyond coaching the defense; his extensive experience, including multiple Stanley Cup wins, has provided invaluable guidance during stressful times. “Anytime you’ve won Stanley Cups and been part of one of the best teams ever, there’s a lot to be extracted from him,” Knoblauch noted, emphasizing Coffey’s ability to boost player confidence and offer practical advice.
Reflecting on the team’s decisive victory in Game 4, Knoblauch was cautious about overestimating its impact on Game 5. “Momentum lasts short periods of time, pretty much shift to shift,” he remarked, downplaying the notion that the previous game’s success would automatically carry over. He stressed the need for a strong effort in the upcoming game, acknowledging the unpredictable nature of finishing rates in hockey.
One of Knoblauch’s key responsibilities has been maintaining team confidence, a task made easier by the players’ resilience. “They feel good,” he stated. Despite facing criticism and doubts throughout the season, the team has consistently demonstrated its ability to overcome adversity. “They’ve been told it’s over and you’re not that good… it doesn’t mean anything to them,” he added, highlighting the players’ determination and collective belief in their abilities.
Goaltender Stuart Skinner’s performance has been a significant factor in the Oilers’ playoff run. Knoblauch discussed Skinner’s growth, particularly following a challenging reset in Vancouver. “He said first it pissed him off but then he realized how good that was for him,” Knoblauch recounted. Skinner’s ability to improve as series progress has been notable, with the coach pointing out his exceptional performances in critical moments, especially in the latter parts of series against Los Angeles and Dallas.
The Oilers’ success on the rush in Game 4 was attributed to the players’ ability to execute under pressure. “It’s just about our guys relaxing and making plays,” Knoblauch explained. He noted that while there was no specific script, the team’s effective first passes and composure led to numerous scoring opportunities. Moving forward, maintaining this level of play will be crucial.
Knoblauch acknowledged the team’s perseverance and inherent belief in their potential, even after a tough start to the season. “I think that belief was always part of that room,” he said. Eliminating frustration and restoring confidence were primary goals upon his arrival, and he believes these efforts have been successful in revitalizing the team’s performance.
Looking ahead to Game 5, Knoblauch anticipated that Aleksander Barkov would frequently match up against Connor McDavid, a challenge the Oilers are prepared to face. He expressed confidence in the team’s ability to adapt and perform without relying heavily on specific matchups. “We need our four lines playing; that’s the biggest thing,” he emphasized, underscoring the importance of a collective team effort.
On the potential return of Evander Kane, Knoblauch was optimistic, stating, “I think they’re good,” without providing specific details. He concluded by reaffirming the team’s readiness and focus, highlighting the importance of maintaining their current momentum and approach as they aim to secure a crucial victory in Game 5.
Good luck, Oilers! Go out there and bring home the win!