In a recent Edmonton Journal article, hockey journalist Kurt Leavins mentioned that forward Mattias Janmark might move down the roster after the Olympic break.
I believe Mattias Janmark’s place on the team is at risk. He is a decent skater (when looking at speed and quick bursts, according to NHL Edge). However, his scoring has really dropped. Also, the Oilers’ penalty kill has been struggling. I still think he has value on the team, but he might be better suited as a 13th or 14th forward.
For now, I think Adam Henrique is likely to take Janmark’s position in the lineup.
– Kurt Leavins
Several things are working against Janmark.
Both Janmark and Henrique will attend Edmonton’s mini-camp, which is happening because of the Olympic break, and they will both try for a spot in the lower six forwards.
Even though both players have had weak scoring this season, Henrique has an edge because he plays stronger defense.
The Oilers’ bottom six has been struggling lately and needs some changes. Henrique returning from injury helps in several ways.
Adam is a natural center and is better at face-offs. Replacing Janmark lets the Oilers keep good face-off stats and stay reliable defensively on the fourth line, without messing up the top-six players.
Since Edmonton’s penalty kill has gotten worse recently, having Henrique on the PK unit should help the team. Before his injury, he averaged 1 minute and 35 seconds on the PK over 43 games with a unit that was one of the best in the league.
Janmark’s average time on the PK is similar at 1 minute and 30 seconds over 42 games, but the team has struggled when he’s on it, so a change is needed.
Of course, it isn’t only Mattias’ fault that Edmonton’s penalty kill is not performing well, but Henrique can provide the same defensive help while also being capable of scoring more.
The mini-camp will not just help these two players, but the whole team, as they will have the opportunity to work on their weaknesses for the upcoming games.
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