In the context of the Stanley Cup Final, the Edmonton Oilers find themselves at a crossroads after a resounding 6-1 defeat against the Florida Panthers in the third game. The Edmonton team, now with a 2-1 series deficit, could make a crucial change in goal for the next game.
Skinner or Pickard? Knoblauch’s Decision
Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch has put on hold the decision on who will defend the goal in Game 4. The choice will be debated between Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard, the latter with an outstanding performance in the postseason.Knoblauch has acknowledged that the team hasn’t always performed up to par in games where Skinner hasn’t been at his best, although he has also highlighted the importance of giving Pickard the opportunity to accumulate minutes if necessary. Pickard has a 6-0 playoff record. The loss on Monday highlighted the need for more offensive support for the goalie who is selected. The Panthers dominated in all aspects of the game, limiting Oilers stars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Discipline will be key for the Oilers in Game 4, after accumulating 21 penalties and 85 penalty minutes, which facilitated the Panthers’ game.We will announce our decision before the game.
Kris Knoblauch
The team had two days to prepare and decided to train on Tuesday to focus on what happened and improve for the next match.The game was already decided, with 11 minutes to go, and then hell broke loose.
Leon Draisaitl
The Oilers, with their extensive experience, will seek to recover from this defeat and demonstrate their ability to react in the next game.We feel much better. We know we can improve.
Mattias Ekholm
The final, which is a rematch of last year’s championship against the Panthers, has been more difficult for Skinner. He has a 1-2 record, with a .866 SV% and 3.74 GAA. This statistic has led Knoblauch to consider the possibility of putting Pickard back in the game on Thursday.You can’t dwell on what happened.
Corey Perry
