Goaltender Stuart Skinner steps in for injured Calvin Pickard, taking his place as the starting goalie for Game 3 against the Golden Knights for Edmonton Oilers.
Catching Up with the Oilers: Goaltender Shuffle
Hey there! Let's dive into the latest development in the NHL playoffs, as the Edmonton Oilers swap goalies for Game 3 against Vegas Golden Knights.
Stuart Skinner is stepping in to replace Calvin Pickard, who's currently day-to-day due to an injury[1][2]. Pickard had been on a roll in the previous game, securing an outstanding win for the Oilers with a whopping 28 saves in Game 2. Unfortunately, as the third period approached, it seemed he was feeling discomfort, even visibly shaking out his left leg[1].
Pickard took the reins as the Oilers' starter during their series against the Los Angeles Kings. Prior to this, it was Skinner who had been the regular-season starter, but he was swapped in when the Oilers found themselves trailing 2-0 in the first round.
Interestingly, the Oilers enjoyed a winning streak of six games under Pickard's leadership, which also saw them grab a 2-0 series advantage from Vegas, heading back home to Rogers Place[1][2].
For Skinner, this switch brings him a chance to debut in the spotlight, following some time in the shadows. He boasts a 19-17 career playoff record with the Oilers and is eager to make his mark[1].
So, if you're keeping track of the playoffs, the goaltender scenario for Game 3 has shifted. Let's see how this change of guards pans out!
Sources:- https://apnews.com/hub/nhl- [Health Update] Calvin Pickard Day-to-Day with Lower Body Injury- Stuart Skinner Slated to Replace Calvin Pickard for Game 3 against Vegas Golden Knights
- In the NHL playoffs, the Edmonton Oilers are replacing Calvin Pickard with Stuart Skinner for Game 3 against the Vegas Golden Knights due to Pickard's day-to-day lower body injury.
- Stuart Skinner has the opportunity to debut in the spotlight during Game 3, having previously been the regular-season starter for the Oilers.
- Calvin Pickard, who has been on a roll in the previous game for the Oilers with 28 saves, was visibly showing discomfort in the third period.
- Prior to being replaced by Skinner, Pickard led the Oilers to a six-game winning streak, helping them gain a 2-0 series advantage from Vegas.
- The news of this goalie shuffle in hockey, specifically in the Oilers' game against the Golden Knights, is significant for sports enthusiasts following the NHL playoffs.