The Edmonton Oilers will be starting goalie Stuart Skinner in Game 6 of their second-round playoff series against the Vancouver Canucks in a must-win situation. Skinner replaces Calvin Pickard, who started Games 4 and 5. Head coach Kris Knoblauch expressed confidence in Skinner, citing his solid play and ability to steal games. Vancouver currently leads the best-of-seven series 3-2 and can advance to the Western Conference final with a win on Saturday.
Skinner was in net for the first three games of the series but was replaced in the third period of Game 3 after allowing four goals on 15 shots. Pickard came in as a relief goalie and performed well, posting a 1-1 record with a 2.21 goals-against average and a .915 save percentage. Skinner, who watched from the bench, expressed his excitement for Pickard’s success. Skinner has a 5-3 record in the post-season with a 3.22 goals-against average and one shutout, and he has been working on his mental game to improve his performance.
The Oilers are facing elimination in the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs if they lose Game 6 against the Canucks. Edmonton is in a must-win situation after losing Game 5 and Leon Draisaitl emphasized the importance of taking things one game at a time. The Oilers have responded to every loss in this year’s playoffs with a win, including in the first round against the Los Angeles Kings and in the second round against the Canucks. Fans are cautious but remain hopeful that the Oilers can rally and force a Game 7.
During last year’s playoffs, the Oilers also faced elimination but were unable to overcome the Golden Knights in Game 6. Fans like Mike Turner expressed concern over the team’s performance in Game 5 and have low expectations for Game 6. However, supporters like Danielle Bourgeois believe in the team’s ability to bounce back and find ways to regain their confidence. Game 6 will take place at Rogers Place, and fans can tune in to 630 CHED for live coverage of the game starting with The Faceoff Show at 4 p.m.
Overall, the Oilers are relying on goalie Stuart Skinner to help them stay alive in the playoffs by winning Game 6 against the Canucks. Fans and players alike recognize the importance of focusing on one game at a time and are hopeful for a potential Game 7 if the team can secure a victory in Game 6. Skinner’s confidence and mental preparation, combined with the team’s resilience in responding to losses, provide a foundation for the Oilers to fight for their playoff lives in a crucial matchup.
