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The Edmonton Oilers have announced that Calvin Pickard will start in net for Game 5 against the Los Angeles Kings on Tuesday. This decision was confirmed by head coach Kris Knoblauch following the morning skate.
Knoblauch praised Pickard, stating, “I think he’s made some big saves when we’ve needed it, especially in the second half of the game.” He highlighted Pickard’s composure, noting that he “has given us really solid goaltending at key times.”
Pickard stepped in for Stuart Skinner during Game 2 and has since helped lead the Oilers to victories in Games 3 and 4, leveling the best-of-seven first-round series at 2-2.
The 33-year-old goalie, standing six feet one inches and weighing 206 pounds, hails from Moncton, N.B., and carries a .889 save percentage along with a 3.29 goals-against average for the postseason thus far.
During the regular season of 2024-25, Pickard achieved a record of 22 wins, 10 losses, and 1 overtime defeat, with a .900 save percentage and a 2.71 goals-against average. In contrast, Skinner, 26, who was the primary starter for most of the regular season, posted a record of 26-18-4, with a .896 save percentage, a 2.81 goals-against average, and three shutouts. He struggled in the opening games of the series, allowing 11 goals on 58 shots.
Heading into Tuesday’s game, the Oilers are averaging 4.75 goals against per game, the highest among the 16 playoff teams, while the Kings follow closely with 4.50. Knoblauch projected that these high scoring games are unlikely to continue, emphasizing, “It would be pretty hard to think it would stay as high as it has been over these four games. Especially with two teams that take a lot of pride in their defensive play.” He anticipates more low-scoring battles in the coming games.
Source
globalnews.ca