The Oilers make some changes to give their young guns a different look.
There are five teams in Penticton, British Columbia for the Vancouver Canucks Young Stars Tournament, but only one team and one player has been the centre of attention.
And that's Taylor Hall.
On Wednesday night, Hall will play centre for Edmonton as the Oilers close out the rookie tournament against tjh San Jose Sharks.
"I did play centre in the OHL," said Hall after the morning skate. "I certainly played more on the left wing but it's not a strange position for me."
What might be a little strange for Hall on his shift from the side to the middle is the fact he has to take face-offs.
"I don't mind doing that," said the No. 1 pick who worked on his face-offs at the morning skate. "I actually took quite a few draws with Windsor last year in the playoffs and was about 75 percent (successful)."
Hall also understands that his defensive work in Edmonton's zone will be a key to his success.
"I know down in my end," continued Hall, "that I'll have to be very sound in getting down low and recognizing my responsibilities."
This move comes a game after Hall was a healthy scratch Tuesday night against Calgary. Hall, Jordan Eberle and Magnus Paajarvi didn't play against the Flames but all three will be in the lineup Wednesday night. In fact, they'll be on the same line with Eberle on right wing and Paajarvi on the left.
"We found out (Wednesday) morning," explained Eberle, "and it was exciting. We'll be counted upon to put up some offence as it's quite a chance to play with such great players."
Paajarvi echoed those thoughts of his new linemate.
"You always want to play with the best," said Paajarvi, "and having a chance to do that is awesome."
For Hall it might make the transition in positions an easier one knowing whose on his right and left. "They are two great players," said Hall, "and it's going to be pretty hard for me to have a bad game."
Depending on how good a game the big three rookies have for Edmonton, this may determine if this a one-time experiment or a sign of things to come.
