Oilers Turn to Skinner in Game 3 Against Golden Knights
EDMONTON — Stuart Skinner will be back between the pipes for the Edmonton Oilers as they face the Vegas Golden Knights in Game 3 of the Western Conference Second Round on Saturday at rogers Place. the puck drops at 9 p.m. ET.
Pickard’s Injury Paves Way for Skinner’s return
Skinner is stepping in for Calvin Pickard,who is day to day with a lower-body injury sustained during the Oilers’ 5-4 overtime victory against Vegas in Game 2 on Thursday. This marks Skinner’s first start since April 23, when he was pulled in the third period of a 6-2 loss to the Los Angeles Kings in Game 2 of the first round after allowing five goals on 28 shots.
Skinner Seeks Redemption After Bumpy Start
Skinner’s current postseason record stands at 0-2, with a 6.11 goals-against average (GAA) and an .810 save percentage. Though, last year’s playoffs saw a different Skinner, one who went 14-9 with a 2.45 GAA and a .901 save percentage, playing a key role in the Oilers’ journey to the stanley Cup Final, where they ultimately fell to the Florida Panthers in seven games.
Skinner Ready for the Challenge
“Obviously it’s not the situation we want to be in, but that’s playoffs,” Skinner said following the morning skate.“you need two goalies to normally go all the way, so I’m excited to back to the net. I’ve had some time to work on some things and I’m ready to go.”
Regular Season Success Preceded Playoff Struggles
Prior to the playoffs, Skinner had secured the No. 1 goalie position, posting a 26-18-4 record in 51 games (50 starts) with a 2.81 GAA and an .896 save percentage.
History Repeats: Skinner Benched Last Season Too
Last season’s playoff run saw a similar scenario, with Skinner giving way to Pickard for Games 4 and 5 of the second round against the Vancouver Canucks, before reclaiming his spot for game 6. The Oilers eventually won that series in seven games.
Coach Knoblauch Confident in skinner’s Ability
“We’re expecting [Skinner] to come in and deliver what he’s done before,” Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch said.“He was in the situation last year after having a little break in the Vancouver series and came back and was a solid goaltender throughout that series against Vancouver and throughout the rest of the playoffs. I think he’s ready and we’re going to go from that.”
Pickard’s Injury Details
Pickard had won six consecutive starts after taking over from Skinner. The injury appeared to occur in the third period of Game 2 when Vegas Golden Knights forward Tomas Hertl fell onto his left leg just before Alex Pietrangelo tied the game at 4-4.
Pickard’s Postseason Stats
The 33-year-old Pickard has a 2.84 GAA and an.888 save percentage this postseason. During the regular season, he played 36 games (31 starts), going 22-10-1 with a 2.81 GAA and an .896 save percentage.
Skinner Embraces the Prospect
“I’ve been here before, so nothing is that new to me,” Skinner said. “it’s an opportunity for me to do my job and just give these guys a chance to do; that’s all I can do. I’ll just go out there and play my game.” He added, “I know the building is going to be loud, so I’m really excited to get back in there.”
Here are two PAA (people Also Ask) related questions,suitable for the title “Oilers’ Goaltending Gamble: Q&A”,based on the provided content:
Oilers’ Goaltending Gamble: Q&A
Why is Stuart Skinner starting Game 3?
Stuart Skinner is starting Game 3 against the Vegas Golden Knights as backup goalie,Calvin Pickard,is day-to-day with a lower-body injury sustained in Game 2.
What’s Skinner’s playoff history adn current performance like?
Skinner’s current postseason record this year is 0-2 with a 6.11 GAA and a.810 save percentage. However, last year he played a key role in the Oilers’ run to the Stanley Cup Final, going 14-9 with a 2.45 GAA and a.901 save percentage.
How did Pickard get injured?
Pickard was injured in Game 2 when Vegas forward Tomas Hertl fell onto his left leg just before Alex Pietrangelo tied the game. Before the injury, Pickard had won six consecutive starts.
What does Coach Knoblauch think of Skinner’s return?
Coach Knoblauch is confident in Skinner’s ability, recalling his success in the previous season’s playoffs after a similar situation. He is expecting Skinner to deliver.
what are the implications of this change?
This is a crucial moment for the Oilers. Skinner’s performance will be under intense scrutiny. If he struggles, it could severely impact their chances.
With Skinner back in the net, the oilers hope to make a comeback.The outcome of the game hinges on Skinner’s performance,making Game 3 a must-watch.
