Stuart Skinner will be back in net for the Edmonton Oilers in Saturday night's must-win Game 6 against the Vancouver Canucks. After losing the series 3-2 and coming off a game in which their offense was virtually non-existent, the Oilers face elimination in the second round of the Western Conference.
Although Skinner expressed excitement about being a starter, he struggled this postseason, posting a .793 save percentage and giving up 12 points on 58 shots in three playoff games. Despite those numbers, Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch remains confident in Skinner's abilities. “I've seen Stu play incredibly well for us. He steals games and is just solid,” Knoblauch said after the morning skate. “He's been our player all year. So given this situation, that's the kind of guy we want in the Nets.”
Skinner started the first three games of the series, but gave up four points on 15 shots and was replaced in Game 3. Veteran Calvin Pickard took his place, appearing in his first playoff game at age 32. Picard posted a 1-1 record with a 2.21 points average and a .915 save percentage in games played.
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When asked about Picard's performance, Skinner said he was excellent and did the job he was asked to do. Indeed, the loss in Game 5 was not Picard's fault. Skinner also admitted that watching from the bench as Pickard's backup was tough, saying, “It was tough just because you want to be in there.”
Other potential lineup changes for Oilers Game 6
Coach Knoblauch also hinted at the possibility of a lineup change for Game 6, citing a player's illness. “There may be another lineup change. It depends on health,” Knoblauch said. The Oilers plan to have additional skaters on the ice during warmups to assess the situation before making a final decision.
Adam Henrique will miss five games in a row due to injury issues. Corey Perry was seen staying out late during the morning skate, smiling and joking with teammates, and officials expect him to be absent. is. He didn't produce much in the playoffs, didn't score, and wasn't the nuisance he was best known for. Mr. Knoblauch did not approve of Mr. Perry's situation.
Very few players were on the ice for the optional skate this morning. Not only are they sick and worn out, but the Oilers' strategy is to prioritize rest so top players like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl can hit the ground running.
Skinner's return and potential lineup changes will be crucial as the Oilers prepare to avoid elimination. I hope everyone, including Skinner, has a better game. That's what the Oilers need if they want to force a Game 7 run and keep their playoff hopes alive.
