It isn't a must-win game for the Edmonton Oilers in Game 4, but that doesn't mean they won't be in a heap of trouble if the Florida Panthers find a way to take a 3-1 series lead. The Oilers are already ahead of last year's Stanley Cup Final, having won one of the first three games. However, head coach Kris Knoblauch realizes a 3-1 deficit might not work in their favor.
Knoblauch confirmed on Thursday afternoon via Chris Johnston that there will be two changes to the Oilers' lineup. Up front, he will replace Viktor Arvidsson, while he'll replace John Klingberg with Troy Stecher on the blue line.
Another lineup decision that many were holding their breath about was the starting goaltender. Stuart Skinner had struggled through the first three games, allowing 12 goals and getting pulled from the net after allowing five in Game 3. Knoblauch is sticking with the goalie who got him to the final, as Skinner will be the starter for Game 4.
It could be a costly decision on all fronts for Knoblauch. Arvidsson has plenty of playoff experience, while Skinner is in the first playoffs of his career and has been a healthy scratch for most of the postseason. Klingberg has been experiencing a resurgence, entering the top four of the Oilers' defense, while Stecher hasn't played since the Dallas Stars series.
If the moves work out, Knoblauch will be seen as a hero, but if Edmonton heads home down 3-1, it could be a long couple of days for the bench boss.