Edmonton Oilers Set Roster Ahead Of Game 1

The Edmonton Oilers are ready to kick off their Stanley Cup Playoffs and will be entertaining the Winnipeg Jets on Wednesday night. There were some decisions to be made in regards to the lineup, and head coach Dave Tippett has everything finalized. Zack Kassian and Slate Koekkoek draw in for Game 1.

Kahun-McDavid-Puljujarvi
RNH-Draisaitl-Yamamoto
Archibald-Khaira-Chiasson
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Russell/Jones-Bouchard

Smith
Koskinen

— Bob Stauffer (@Bob_Stauffer) May 18, 2021

Kassian's style of play is perfectly suited for the playoffs and if he can stay on the good side of the edge, he's going to be an effective player for the Oilers this postseason. Koekkoek draws in and hopes to provide some stability to the team's bottom-pair.

Kassian missed the final three weeks of the season, so there was some doubt about his availability. While he hasn't played since April 21, he's all set to the opening puck drop. Koekkoek was also injured late in the season, suffering a broken collarbone. Looks like both are going to tough it out and Oilers fans are excited to get things moving and shaking. The team dominated the Jets this season and if they manage to stay healthy and get a solid dose of goaltending from Mike Smith, the Oilers could be contenders these playoffs.

Photo credit: © Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports