EDMONTON, Alberta — The Edmonton Oilers are turning to Stuart Skinner in goal as they prepare for Game 3 of the Western Conference Second Round against the Vegas Golden Knights. The matchup is set for Saturday at Rogers Place, with puck drop scheduled for 9 p.m. ET.
Skinner’s entry into the lineup comes as a result of a lower-body injury sustained by Calvin Pickard during a thrilling overtime win in Game 2. Pickard’s status is currently day-to-day after he left the ice with an injury in the third period, following a collision with Golden Knights forward Tomas Hertl.
This marks Skinner’s first start since April 23, when he was pulled during a playoff game against the Los Angeles Kings after giving up five goals. In this postseason, he has struggled, managing only a .810 save percentage and a 6.11 goals-against average across two games.
However, Skinner possesses a wealth of playoff experience. Last year’s postseason saw him play a pivotal role in leading the Oilers to the Stanley Cup Final, where they fell to the Florida Panthers in a seven-game series. His performance during that run included a regular-season record of 26-18-4, with a GAA of 2.81 and an .896 save percentage.
“I’m eager to return to the net,” Skinner said after the team’s morning skate. “Every playoff run brings its challenges. I’ve had some time to work on my game, and I feel ready to contribute.”
Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch expressed confidence in Skinner’s ability to rise to the occasion. “We’re counting on him to deliver as he has before,” Knoblauch stated, pointing to Skinner’s previous success after a brief hiatus in last season’s playoff history. “He’s proven himself, and I believe he’s prepared to help us win.”
For Pickard, his recent performances were notable; he had won six consecutive starts after taking over from Skinner. Despite his strong showing, he now finds himself sidelined after continuing to play through injury in Game 2, where he managed to make 28 saves, keeping the Oilers in the contest.
Over the regular season, Pickard demonstrated his skill with a solid record of 22-10-1 and similar numbers in GAA and save percentage to those he has achieved in the playoffs.
“I know what to expect in this situation,” Skinner added, looking ahead to the game. “The atmosphere will be electric, and I’m ready to take on the challenge. My focus is on doing my job and providing my teammates with the best chance to succeed.”
As the Oilers brace for a critical game, all eyes will be on Skinner’s performance in goal, a role that could be similar to the one he played last season during a tense playoff run. The stakes are high, and both teams seek a crucial win as the series unfolds.