Edmonton Oilers Depth Concerns Mount as Skinner Returns, Key Players Out
The Edmonton Oilers are navigating a tricky situation heading into a crucial stretch of their schedule. Goaltender Jack Skinner is set to return to the lineup, providing much-needed depth following a significant injury, but several key players are sidelined, creating further questions for head coach Tim Knoblauch.
Skinner’s Return and Backup Situation
Skinner’s return is timely, coming after he was injured during the Dallas game. He’s been out of action since, and Olivier Rodrigue was recalled from the Bakersfield Condors in his absence. Rodrigue was promptly returned to Bakersfield on Thursday, leaving Skinner to back up Calvin Pickard against the San Jose Sharks on Saturday.
“I’m very confident,”
Knoblauch
said of Skinner’s ability to return to form after missing more than two weeks. “A lot of it is the technical side without playing the games. You’ve got to hone in on those skills, those technical aspects of it, because you’re spending more time at practices. Games are obviously a big part of getting prepared, and he’ll have a little test of that with two games, and hopefully he can pick up and play very well for us.”
Notable Absences Ahead of Weekend Games
Adding to the team’s challenges, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Jake Walman were unavailable for Wednesday’s 4-3 win over the St. Louis Blues and were absent for Friday’s morning skate. Leon Draisaitl remains close to returning to action, but isn’t fully ready for the game against San Jose.
- Ryan Nugent-Hopkins: Unavailable
- Jake Walman: Unavailable
- Leon Draisaitl: Close to returning – Not fully ready
Furthermore, Evander Kane, ineligible to return until the Stanley Cup Playoffs, participated in Friday’s morning skate, demonstrating his continued involvement with the team. Cam Dineen was also recalled from the Bakersfield Condors on Thursday to fill a roster spot after Rodrigue’s return.
Upcoming Games and Skinner’s Role
Knoblauch plans to have Skinner start two of the team’s remaining three games. This strategic deployment highlights the team’s current need for goaltending depth.
FAQs
- Q: When is Jack Skinner expected to play?
- Q: Why are so many players injured?
- Q: What is the team’s plan for goaltending depth?
A: Jack Skinner is slated to back up Calvin Pickard against the San Jose Sharks on Saturday, February 10th.
A: Several players are currently sidelined due to injuries, and Evander Kane is ineligible to return until the playoffs.
A: The team intends to utilize Jack Skinner in two of their remaining three games to bolster their goaltending options.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the Oilers’ injury reports leading up to the Sharks game. Fluctuations in player availability could significantly impact their lineup.
Did you know? Skinner’s last NHL appearance was on November 20th, 2023.
The Oilers face a tough test as they prepare for the San Jose Sharks. Managing the current roster situation will be crucial to their playoff aspirations.
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