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Edmonton Oilers Set to Face Winnipeg Jets in Season Opener

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Edmonton Oilers Vs Winnipeg Jets

EDMONTON, AB – The Edmonton Oilers are gearing up for their 2024-25 NHL season opener against the Winnipeg Jets at Rogers Place. A notable inclusion in the lineup is defenceman Travis Dermott, who is making his official debut with the Oilers after securing a contract following a successful professional tryout (PTO) during training camp. Head Coach Kris Knoblauch confirmed Dermott’s placement on the third defensive pair alongside Brett Kulak.

Coach Knoblauch indicated that Dermott’s playing time will depend on his performance compared to fellow defenceman Troy Stecher. Both players are expected to compete for starts throughout the season, rotating in and out of the lineup based on their form and the Oilers’ strategic needs against different opponents. “Well, that’ll be dictated on how well he’s playing,” Knoblauch stated during discussions about Dermott’s role. “He’s performed very well and we’ll see how he fits in with the team.”

The Oilers have also adjusted their offensive lines, with Jeff Skinner set to start alongside Leon Draisaitl and Viktor Arvidsson following several practice sessions experimenting with line combinations. According to Knoblauch, the lineup is not set in stone, and flexibility will be a key strategy. “Probably a little bit of both,” Knoblauch remarked. “We’re not going to be set in stone or anything, but tonight, Skinner will be playing with Leon.”

The projected lineup for the game against the Winnipeg Jets includes the top line featuring Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Connor McDavid, and Zach Hyman. Other forward lines feature Skinner, Draisaitl, and Arvidsson; as well as Mattias Janmark, Adam Henrique, and Patrick Brown. The fourth line consists of Vasily Podkolzin, Derek Ryan, and Corey Perry.

Defensively, the pairings are set with Mattias Ekholm and Evan Bouchard leading, followed by Darnell Nurse and Ty Emberson. The third pairing will consist of Brett Kulak and Travis Dermott. Stuart Skinner is anticipated to start as the goaltender, with Calvin Pickard as the backup.

Rachel Adams

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