Oilers coach Pat Quinn is giving Sam Gagner a first-hand explanation of the expression 'what have you done for me lately?'
If Sam Gagner had never heard the saying "what have you done for me lately?" then he's getting a first-hand explanation from his coach Pat Quinn. That's because Gagner, the super rookie as the 5th overall pick in the 2007 draft, now finds himself skating between Zack Stortini and Ethan Moreau on Edmonton's fourth line.
"I don't read too much into it," is the way Gagner assessed his spot in the lineup. His coach was a little more clear on why the 20-year-old finds himself in that position. "I know he had a real good year as a rookie but you expect him to get better. He's entering his third season and I haven't seen much during camp."
Strong criticism from a new coach who other than watching him on tape or TV doesn't have any history with Gagner.
"A few years ago this team decided to go with a bunch of kids and now it's time for those kids like Sam to develop," Quinn added.
Gagner's pre-season numbers aren't that bad -- he played in four games and put up one goal and two assists. However he, like many Oilers, is getting accustomed to all that is new with the team.
"I'm too much of a thinker and I just have to do it," Gagner said. "I'm trying to get used to all the new systems and I hope that another few days of practice will help out."
Unfortunately for Gagner it may be too little too late when it comes to moving up the lineup for opening night against Calgary.
"I can't see things changing," Quinn said about his forwards for Saturday against the Flames. "Sam will probably be on the fourth line."
That can't be what the forward could have expected for himself. He became the first Oiler since Jason Arnott in 1993 to make the jump from junior to the NHL. He acquitted himself just fine in a freshman season where he became known for his shootout prowess. There's no doubt that Gagner suffered a sophomore jinx, but he worked his way out of it toward the final quarter of the season.
Maybe that's why so much is expected from a kid who could be a franchise-style player.
"I know Sam and as an athlete when push comes to shove I really believe he'll be fine," is the backing he got from Edmonton GM Steve Tambellini.
Not that he needs it, because Gagner still believes in himself.
"I just have to play my game. I know I can play and it is just the pre-season. I'll be ready."
