Adam Henrique’s early exit may have forced the Edmonton Oilers into an unexpected experiment — one that could actually pay off.
The Oilers picked up a much-needed 6–2 victory over the Nashville Predators, but it came at a cost. Henrique left the game just over two minutes in, creating immediate concern down the middle of the lineup. Head coach Kris Knoblauch turned to a couple of rookies and a late-season signing and sparks flew.
The night belonged to Connor McDavid and his hat trick, but after the game, questions about the status of Henrique became a topic of conversation. Knoblauch offered a brief update, saying, “There’s nothing official yet, but he’s going to be out for a bit.”
With Henrique sidelined, Edmonton will need to reinsert either Trent Frederic or Andrew Mangiapane — both of whom were scratched — back into the lineup. Don’t expect either to see anything more than a fourth-line role, because it looks like the Oilers might have something cooking on line three.
A Surprising Upside Emerges
The injury did, however, open the door to something intriguing.
With Henrique unavailable, Knoblauch rolled out a makeshift third line featuring Jack Roslovic between Ike Howard and Matt Savoie. The trio didn’t look out of place — in fact, they were noticeably dangerous.
“They generated a lot in the offensive zone,” Knoblauch said. “In the second, immediately, they almost had a really good chance, I think it was Howie [Howard] setting up Savy [Savoie], they probably had four or five on the night. They’re good, we’ll most likely keep those three together and see what they can build.”
That’s encouraging news for an Oilers team that’s been searching all season for a reliable third line combination.
Roslovic brings playmaking ability and steady five-on-five results. Howard is a natural shooter who doesn’t hesitate when opportunities present themselves. Savoie adds speed, energy, and responsible two-way play. Put together, the line has balance — and Roslovic’s veteran presence could help the younger players thrive against softer matchups.
Knoblauch’s early endorsement suggests this wasn’t just a one-off look. The coach plans to keep the trio intact for Thursday’s matchup against the Winnipeg Jets.
If this group can turn a promising debut into consistent offense, Henrique’s injury — while unfortunate — may end up helping Edmonton solve one of its lingering lineup questions.
Next: Host Scoffs at Maple Leafs and Oilers Problem-for-Problem Trade
