McDavid frankly discusses Skinner's substitution in the Stanley Cup Finals, crediting Pickard for providing a fresh opportunity.
Edmonton Oilers' Calvin Pickard Shines in Crunch Time
In the ongoing NHL playoffs, Calvin Pickard has been nothing short of remarkably sensational in the Edmonton Oilers' goal. With an unblemished 7-0 record in the games he's started, Pickard's been a standout player for the Oilers.
Last Thursday, Pickard stepped up after Stuart Skinner allowed the Florida Panthers a three-goal lead in the first period. Replacing Skinner in the second period, Pickard helped the Oilers storm back, eventually clinching the game in overtime with a score of 5-4.
Remember Skinner's replacement in the first round against the Los Angeles Kings? Pickard was the man then too. His spur-of-the-moment entry during Game 2 and stellar performance in Game 3 were instrumental in helping the Oilers dodge a 3-0 series deficit before ending up winning the series.
Against the Vegas Golden Knights in the second round, Pickard added two more victories to his tally before sidelining with a lower-body injury. However, his resilience shone through as he returned to play subsequent games.
Now, with his stellar performance in the Stanley Cup Finals, Pickard's been instrumental in helping the Oilers grab a couple of comeback victories. He came to the fore in Game 3, making some crucial saves in the Stanley Cup Final and repeating the feat in Game 5 against the Panthers.
Connor McDavid has confirmed that Pickard will start Game 5 in goal. The Oilers faithful can only hope their hero continues his phenomenal play as the Oilers and Panthers battle it out. With the series tied 2-2, the next game will give a decisive momentum swing to the winning team, potentially putting the other at risk of elimination.
Next up at Rogers Place, fans can expect a boisterous atmosphere, fueling the Oilers' early game efforts. After all, the team needs every edge they can get.
Ankit Kumar, NHL journalist for our website with over 3 years of experience, reports on this glorious playoff run by Pickard. While admiring the Oilers due to Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, Ankit also harbors a soft spot for the Pittsburgh Penguins, thanks to Sidney Crosby, and the Colorado Avalanche, with Nathan MacKinnon. Ankit's work is marked by his attention to detail, credibility, and passion for the sport.
When he's not following the NHL, Ankit enjoys music and reading books.
Behind the Scenes
Calvin Pickard’s remarkable performance isn't new. He has posted impressive numbers in critical games:
- First Round vs. Los Angeles Kings: Entering the series in relief during Game 2, then starting Game 3, Pickard's 24-save performance in Game 3 helped the Oilers avoid a 3-0 series deficit with a 7-4 victory. He went undefeated in the series, contributing significantly to the Oilers advancing to the next round.
- Second Round vs. Vegas Golden Knights: Pickard won the first two games of the series but was sidelined by a lower-body injury. Despite the setback, he returned in subsequent games showcasing his resilience.
- Stanley Cup Finals: Making his Stanley Cup Final debut in Game 3 and returning in Game 4, Pickard helped the Oilers secure a comeback victory after relieving Stuart Skinner in the second period. His performance in Game 5 against the Panthers was also crucial in securing a win, extending his winning streak in the playoffs.
During the NHL playoffs, Calvin Pickard's remarkable performance extended beyond the Edmonton Oilers' goal, reaching critical matches. For instance, his 24-save performance in Game 3 against the Los Angeles Kings in the first round was instrumental in avoiding a 3-0 series deficit. In the Stanley Cup Finals, his debut in Game 3 and return in Game 4 were pivotal in securing a comeback victory for the Oilers, while his performance in Game 5 against the Panthers further extended his winning streak in the playoffs.
