Stuart Skinner gets his chance again as Oilers look for big game 3 win

Stuart Skinner returns in net for the Edmonton Oilers as they face the Vegas Golden Knights in Game 3 of the second round. Stuart Skinner hasn't begun a game since April 23, but now he gets the opportunity again because Calvin Pickard was injured in the previous game. With the series evened up, this might be a huge opportunity for Stuart Skinner to propel his team to the lead.

Stuart Skinner replaces Calvin Pickard due to injury and extended break
The Oilers are returning to Stuart Skinner after Calvin Pickard's injury to his lower body during Game 2. Calvin Pickard got hurt late in the game when Tomas Hertl ran into him. Although Pickard remained in and assisted the team in winning 5-4 in overtime, he's now day-to-day. That leaves Stuart Skinner back in the limelight.



Stuart Skinner has struggled during the playoffs to date. He yielded five goals on 28 attempts in his last game against the Los Angeles Kings and was replaced in the third period. For two playoff games this year, his stats have not been anything special with a 6.11 goals-against average and a.810 save percentage.


Even so, Stuart Skinner has been in this situation before. He assisted the Oilers in getting to the Stanley Cup Final last season. He has practiced and remained prepared for another opportunity.

Kris Knoblauch and teammates believe in Skinner's resilience

Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch indicated that he has confidence in Stuart Skinner, and he reminded everyone that the goalie rebounded last season after being benched for two games. In that instance, Stuart Skinner rebounded well in Game 6 and assisted the team in taking the series. The Oilers want a repeat of that outcome now against a difficult Vegas team.


Stuart Skinner said he was ready. “It’s an opportunity for me to do my job and just give these guys a chance to do; that’s all I can do. I’ll just go out there and play my game,” he said. The goalie also said he’s looking forward to the energy inside Rogers Place. “I know the building is going to be loud, so I’m really excited to get back in there.”


Calvin Pickard was playing good hockey, winning six straight games before the injury. His stats weren't spectacular, but he did his best to keep the Oilers even. It's now Stuart Skinner’s turn to fill that role again.


Also Read: “Do Not Dare Put Skinner Back In The Net Again”: Calvin Pickard Saves Edmonton Oilers From Failing The 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs