The Edmonton Oilers made a tough decision to replace goaltender Stuart Skinner after the second period in a 4-3 loss to the Vancouver Canucks. This move has raised questions about the team’s goaltending performance in the playoffs for the second year in a row.
Skinner, who has been the starting goalie throughout the playoffs, was taken out of the game after allowing four goals on 15 shots in Game 3. The Canucks now lead the series 2-1 in the Western Conference semifinals. Coach Kris Knoblauch acknowledged the need for better defensive play and goaltending to secure wins in the playoffs.
Skinner, a rookie last season, had a successful regular season but struggled in the playoffs. He was pulled four times in 12 playoff games last year. Despite a rocky start, the Oilers saw improvement under Coach Knoblauch, with Skinner playing a key role in the team’s success.
With uncertainty about who will start in Game 4, both Calvin Pickard and Jack Campbell are options for the Oilers. Pickard made his postseason debut in relief of Skinner, while Campbell, who struggled earlier in the season, has shown potential in the past.
As the Oilers aim to even the series against the Canucks, the team will need solid goaltending and defensive efforts to secure a win. The performance of Skinner, Pickard, or Campbell could determine the outcome of the crucial upcoming games.