Oilers HC Kris Knoblauch comes clean on Connor McDavid's depleted usage in OT win over Isles

By Anjum Rajonno

Modified Nov 13, 2024 06:26 GMT

The Edmonton Oilers pulled off a 4-3 overtime win against the New York Islanders on Tuesday night, with Connor McDavid leading the way with a goal and three assists. He is now just one away from reaching his 1,000th career point.

Following the game, Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch acknowledged that McDavid was playing exceptionally well and said it justified giving him more ice time. Talking about his usage of his captain, who played for 20:55 total, Knoblauch said:

“I thought he played an excellent game and I probably wasn't using him enough in the first two periods. In the third period, there was almost every second shift he was going out there. He had a heckuva game.”

“Four points, but it could've been a lot more. When your top players are rolling and feeling good, it's important for the coach to get them on the ice, because they're going to make a difference."

Following a scoreless first period, Leon Draisaitl put Edmonton ahead in the second with a power-play goal just 36 seconds in from a McDavid assist. However, the Islanders responded with a one-timer from Kyle Palmieri to even it up.

The Oilers looked to be in control in the third period as Evan Bouchard scored early, and McDavid followed up with a goal that put them up 3-1 with 10 minutes left. However, Edmonton couldn’t maintain the lead.

Anders Lee scored twice for the NY Islanders, evening the score at 3-3 and forcing overtime. McDavid ultimately set up Draisaitl for the game-winner at 1:52 in overtime, clinching critical victory.

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Connor McDavid didn’t want to ‘come off the ice’

In the post-game interview, Connor McDavid spoke highly of his teammates’ performances, including Leon Draisaitl's efforts. McDavid praised the forward’s finishing abilities throughout the game, particularly during overtime.

When reflecting on his own play, McDavid said he felt incredible and didn’t want to come off the ice.

“Night's like that, I don't want to come off the ice. Yeah, I felt good. I thought Kris did a great job of getting me lots of opportunities tonight. I felt good, and I was lucky to contribute to a big win.”

Connor McDavid also noted that while their power play is making strides, it still has room for improvement. The Oilers captain said he was happy with their overtime victory, which was vital as the team fights to stay competitive in the standings.