Stuart Skinner will return to the net for the Edmonton Oilers in a must-win Game 6 against the Vancouver Canucks on Saturday night. Down 3-2 in the series and coming off of a game where the offense was virtually non-existent, the Oilers face elimination in the Western Conference second-round matchup.
Skinner, who expressed his excitement about starting, has struggled this postseason with a .793 save percentage in three playoff games, allowing 12 goals on 58 shots. Despite these numbers, Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch remains confident in Skinner’s abilities. He noted, “We’ve seen Stu play unbelievably well for us, steal games, just be solid,” Knoblauch said after the morning skate. “He’s been our guy all year. So, given a situation like this, that’s who we want in net.”
Skinner started the first three games of the series but was replaced in Game 3 after allowing four goals on 15 shots. Veteran Calvin Pickard stepped in, playing in his first-ever playoff game at the age of 32. Pickard posted a 1-1 record with a 2.21 goals-against average and a .915 save percentage in his appearances.
Related: 4 Takeaways From Oilers’ Heartbreaking Game 5 Loss to Canucks
When asked about how Pickard performed, Skinner said he was incredible and did the job asked of him. It is true that the loss in Game 5 certainly wasn’t on Pickard. Skinner also admitted it was tough watching from the bench as Pickard’s backup, saying, “It was tough just because you want to be in there.”
Other Possible Game 6 Lineup Changes for the Oilers
Knoblauch also hinted at potential lineup changes for Game 6, citing an illness affecting one player. “There might be another lineup change. It’s dependent on health,” Knoblauch said. The Oilers plan to have an extra skater on the ice during warmups to assess the situation before making a final decision.
Adam Henrique will miss his fifth consecutive game of the series due to his ongoing injury issues. Corey Perry, who stayed out late during the morning skate and was seen smiling and joking with teammates, is someone that insiders expect might be out. He hasn’t been terribly productive in the playoffs, failing to score and not being the pest most know him to be. Knoblauch wouldn’t confirm Perry’s status.
Very few players were on the ice this morning for an optional skate. Not only ill and banged up, the Oilers’ strategy to prioritize rest so that top players like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl can be ready to come out and make an immediate impact.
As the Oilers gear up to stave off elimination, the return of Skinner and potential lineup changes will be crucial. The hope is that everyone has a better game, including Skinner. The Oilers need it if they hope to force a Game 7 and keep their playoff hopes alive.
