By DEREK VAN DIEST

Considering his talent and penchant for jumping up in the rush, it's surprising Denis Grebeshkov took this long to score an NHL goal.

On Thursday, the Edmonton Oilers defenceman recorded his first career marker, taking a pass from Shawn Horcoff and redirecting it past Phoenix Coyotes goaltender Mikael Tellqvist.

"It's huge to finally get one," Grebeshkov said. "It's been three years, and 70-some games. It's a big relief for me.

"I saw the opening, so I jumped up and I knew Horc would be able to make the play and he did. It was an awesome pass by him."

Prior to scoring against the Coyotes, Grebeshkov had played 70 NHL games over three years without scoring. The goal gave him five points in 38 games this season.

"The timing of the goal was pretty good for us," said Oilers head coach Craig MacTavish. "To get that fifth goal when you're up 4-1. You don't want to let a team back in. It's sure a hell of a lot more comfortable with a three-goal lead then a two-goal lead if they are able to score one.

"Hopefully that will get him to shoot the puck a bit more. There is always three or four instances in a game where you wish he would unload that puck and get it to the net."

Grebeshkov has only 14 shots on net this season, including one Thursday.

"I want to shoot the puck, but I'm more of a passer," Grebeshkov said. "I'm always looking to make a good pass."

Regardless, it was one of Grebeshkov's better games.

"I think point-wise, it was one of my better games, but I think I have played better games this year," he said. "But it makes me feel good, not to only play well, but to be able to put up some numbers. It's good for me."