Photo credit: Russell LaBounty-Imagn Images
In order to continue with its winning ways, the Oilers must make the necessary adjustments to its lineup, beginning with Trent Frederic, as one analyst suggests.
There will be plenty of negativity about Trent Frederic today, but he’s not at his best. I think putting him in the press box for a week might lift that fourth line. Maybe recall Quinn Hutson for a look.
– Allan Mitchell
Strong message needed for struggling forward
When the Oilers signed Trent Frederic to an 8-year, $3.85M AAV deal, it was with the expectation that he would improve the roster and bring both physicality and secondary scoring to a team on the edge of a championship.
That has not been the case. Against the Buffalo Sabres last night, Frederic skated for a TOI of only 6:57 and had just one shot on goal. Not only is he struggling, but he’s hurting the Oilers when he’s in the ice.
Analyst Allan Mitchell fromThe Athletic believes Trent should be replaced with Quinn Hutson, who is turning heads in Bakersfield with his inspired play and consistent offense.
Mitchell is not alone in thinking that Frederic should be benched indefinitely and Hutson promoted to the big club. Reports have been calling this for weeks now.
Not only would it help his development, but it would likely add much needed depth scoring.
In games such as the 4-3 loss to Buffalo, where one goals makes all the difference, Edmonton can no longer afford to dress players that don’t contribute, and not dress ones that can.
Quinn Hutson looks ready to bring his game to the NHL. At least let him have the opportunity to show he may be ready.
Previously on Edmonton Hockey Daily
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Oilers analyst suggests healthy scratch for core forward to send a message
Should Edmonton bench Trent Frederic for at least one week?