Edmonton Oilers forward Trent Frederic found himself watching from the press box on Sunday, a healthy scratch for the first time this season as his team faced the Vegas Golden Knights. The decision by head coach Kris Knoblauch came after Frederic managed just two goals and three points through the team's first 36 games.
A Reset for a Struggling Forward
The move to sit the 220-pound winger was described by Knoblauch as a "very drastic measure" but a necessary one. The coach emphasized the need for a "reset" for Frederic, whose offensive production has been meagre and whose trademark physical, aggressive play has been noticeably absent.
"I'm not sure if it'll be next game but eventually he'll be back in the lineup and he'll find his game," Knoblauch stated, leaving Frederic's immediate future uncertain. This creates a question mark for the Oilers' upcoming matchup against the Calgary Flames on Tuesday.
Questions Beyond the Score Sheet
Frederic's challenges extend beyond a simple scoring drought. Signed to an eight-year contract with a $3.85 million average annual value after last season, expectations were higher for the player known for his willingness to engage physically. He has not registered a fight this season, a stark contrast to his days with the Boston Bruins, where he famously tangled with Tom Wilson on multiple occasions.
Knoblauch pointed to the potential psychological benefit of a clean slate, comparing it to the playoffs where everyone starts at zero. The hope is that this break will provide a similar jolt for Frederic. His spot in the lineup is not guaranteed, however, as replacement Max Jones has been "extremely noticeable" with his energy and physicality on the fourth line.
Searching for Answers
The situation raises several questions. Is Frederic still feeling the effects of the high-ankle sprain he suffered last season? Has the security of a long-term contract inadvertently led to a drop in intensity? These are concerns the Oilers hope will be addressed during this break from game action.
Frederic's only goals this season came in the third game against the New York Rangers and then not again until the 24th game in Tampa Bay. With the team needing contributions from throughout the roster, the Oilers are banking on this reset reigniting the player they invested in last summer.
