Pickard returns in net as Oilers face Kraken in key rematch
PROJECTED LINEUP: Pickard set to start Thursday's rematch with Kraken
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins will start on the top line, while Calvin Pickard will get the start on Thursday when the Oilers face the Kraken for the second time in six days at Rogers Place
2025-12-05T05:35:00+00:00
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The Edmonton Oilers have confirmed their lineup for Thursday’s game against the Seattle Kraken. Calvin Pickard will start in goal, marking his first appearance since a narrow overtime loss to Tampa Bay in an online game in November. Coach Kris Knoblauch has also set the forward and defensive pairings, aiming for stronger depth contributions.
Pickard’s last start came on 20 November, when he made 33 saves in a 2-1 overtime defeat to the Lightning in a free game. This time, Stuart Skinner will back him up as the Oilers look to bounce back.
The Oilers enter the match with a clear structure, from Pickard’s return in net to the forward lines and defensive pairings. The focus remains on tightening depth scoring while relying on key players like McDavid and Draisaitl to lead the attack. The game against Seattle will test whether these adjustments translate into a stronger performance.
