Jake Walman didn’t play at all in the last period on Tuesday night, and head coach Kris Knoblauch made it very clear why.
The experienced defenseman spent the whole third period on the bench during the game against Ottawa. Some fans thought it was due to an injury, but the truth was revealed the next morning.
Walman said that his time on the bench was completely a choice made by the coach.
Instead of avoiding the media, the 30-year-old defenseman spoke honestly. “I got myself into this situation, it’s on me. I need to improve my game,” Walman explained.
That kind of honesty is just what the team needs at this moment. The Oilers are currently fighting for a leading position in the Pacific Division, and every mistake is highlighted. Walman had a minus-2 score in the first two periods and had a hard time keeping up with the Senators’ fast pace.
He understands that the expectations in Edmonton are very high right now.
Throughout his NHL career, Walman has been seen as a strong player in transitioning the puck, but his defensive skills have been inconsistent lately. With a salary of $3.4 million, the Oilers really need him to be a dependable part of the defense.
Sitting out a whole period is a big wake-up call for any experienced player.
Jake Walman said not seeing the ice in the third period last night was a coach’s decision, not due to injury.
“I put myself in that position, it’s my fault. I have to play better…”#Oilers
— Brenden Escott (@BrendenEscott) March 4, 2026
The way back to being a top player
The coaches aren’t looking for reasons or excuses as the games get tougher.
Knoblauch has shown he will cut down playing time, no matter how much a player is paid or how long they’ve been around. If the team’s defensive plan isn’t followed, then those minutes will go to someone else.
Ty Emberson and Darnell Nurse took on more responsibilities while Walman watched from the bench.
The next game will really show what’s going on. When Jake Walman is focused and driven, he can significantly impact this defense, but he needs to demonstrate that he can take on tough challenges once more.
Taking responsibility is the first move to performing better again.
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