Breaking: Oilers’ Starter Calvin Pickard Out Indefinitely; Stuart Skinner’S Shutout in Game 4 Secures 3-1 Series Lead Over Golden Knights
In a developing story, Edmonton Oilers starting goaltender Calvin Pickard is expected to miss the remainder of the Western Conference Semifinal series against the Vegas Golden Knights due to an injury, according to a TSN report. Pickard, who has won all six postseason starts, suffered the injury during Game 2 when Tomas Hertl fell into his leg. In a crucial Game 4 matchup tonight, backup goalie Stuart Skinner stepped up, posting a 3-0 shutout victory, securing a commanding 3-1 series lead for the Oilers. Skinner, who made 23 saves, will likely continue in net while Pickard recovers. Meanwhile, Game 5 is set for Wednesday night in Las Vegas. Stay tuned for more updates on Pickard’s status and the ongoing series.
Game-Changer Injury: Calvin Pickard’s Absence Rocking the Edmonton Oilers’ Net; Stuart Skinner Steps Up in Game 4 Victory
Injury Throwback: Pickard Out Indefinitely for Oilers
In a turn of events reminiscent of last season’s playoff drama, the Edmonton Oilers are set to face a goaltending crisis as Calvin Pickard, their rock-solid playoff hero, is expected to miss the remainder of the Western Conference semifinal series against the Vegas Golden Knights. This, according to a TSN report}}
Backup Plan Activated: Stuart Skinner Steals the Show
In a logger-fuelled atmosphere at the Rogers Place on Monday night, it was veteran Stuart Skinner who scripted a triumphant return, registering a 23-save shutout against the Golden Knights in a resounding 3-0 victory. This crucial win puts the Oilers a mere victory away from punching their ticket to the next round with a 3-1 series lead.
Pickard’s Stellar Playoff Run Halted
Pickard, who had started every game of the Oilers’ postseason run, was sidelined after absorbing a heavy hit by Vegas forward Tomas Hertl last Sunday. The 33-year-old had been the unshakable force behind the Oilers’ net, posting six wins in six starts, including a pivotal four-game sweep against the Los Angeles Kings. His backup, Olivier Rodrigue, stepped in for Game 4, marking just his third postseason appearance.
**Did You Know?**Pickard’s impressive 1.71 goals-against average (GAA) and .947 save percentage (SV%) this postseason are the best among active playoff goalies, trailing only 2021 Stanley Cup champion **Pro Tip:**Pulling off a shutout against a high-powered offense like Vegas’s is no easy feat. Skinner’s ability to keep the Golden Knights at bay, even with Eller’s late-game antics, solidified his place in the crease for Game 5.
Oilers Roll On, Tiebreaker Awaits in Vegas
The Oilers, down but not out after losing the first two games against the Kings, have now won seven of their last eight playoff games. With Game 5 scheduled back in Las Vegas, the Oilers are one win away from a spectacular comeback and a date in the Conference Finals. But first, they must navigate the challenging landscape of T-Mobile Arena, where the Golden Knights have been nothing short of dominant this postseason.
FAQs
- When might Pickard return?
- TSN reported that Pickard’s return would likely take at least a week.
- What’s next for the Oilers and Golden Knights?
- Game 5 is scheduled for Wednesday night in Las Vegas.
**Join the Conversation:**
With the Oilers one win away from a series victory, what do you think will happen in Game 5? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and stay tuned for more updates on the epic Western Conference semifinal battle!