Stuart Skinner will start in goal for the Edmonton Oilers in Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Final against the Florida Panthers. With the Oilers facing elimination, this decision by coach Kris Knoblauch is a significant one, potentially impacting Skinner's future with the team. The game is scheduled for Tuesday at Amerant Bank Arena in Florida.
Skinner's performance in the playoffs has been a rollercoaster. He was pulled in Game 4 after allowing three goals on 17 shots in the first period, although he stated he felt like he "played well". Calvin Pickard relieved him, and while Pickard initially won the starting job, he surrendered four goals on 18 shots in Game 5, leading to a 5-2 defeat. Knoblauch's decision to return to Skinner underscores the high-pressure environment and the constant evaluation of goaltending performance.
Throughout the playoffs, Skinner has had moments of brilliance and struggles. He briefly lost his starting position to Pickard earlier in the playoffs but regained it due to an injury to Pickard. Overall in the post season, Skinner has a 7-6 record with a 2.99 goals-against average and an .891 save percentage.
NHL analyst Craig Simpson suggested that this Game 6 start is crucial for Skinner's future with the Oilers. According to Simpson, not starting Skinner could mean the goalie wouldn't be back with the team next season. He emphasized the need to give Skinner the opportunity to either "hit a home run or strike out."
Several factors contribute to the significance of this game for Skinner. Firstly, the Oilers are facing elimination, adding immense pressure. Secondly, Skinner's inconsistencies throughout the playoffs have raised questions about his long-term viability as the team's starting goalie. Lastly, with one year remaining on his contract at $2.6 million AAV, the Oilers might consider other options if Skinner doesn't perform well.
Despite the external pressures, Skinner expressed confidence, stating, "I definitely know that I have the confidence from my team 100 percent. I think there is a lot of belief here." His teammates have also voiced their support. Leon Draisaitl emphasized Skinner's past performances, saying, "There's just a trust factor that we know that he can get the job done for us...it was us that let him down. We have full belief in him."
The Oilers have made other lineup adjustments for Game 6, with Kasperi Kapanen replacing Viktor Arvidsson and John Klingberg suiting up for Troy Stecher. These changes reflect the team's urgency and determination to extend the series to a Game 7.
The Florida Panthers are aiming to win their second consecutive Stanley Cup. They lead the series 3-2 and have the opportunity to clinch the title on home ice. Historically, the Panthers have struggled to close out series, so the Oilers will need to capitalize on any potential nerves or mistakes from the Florida side.
In summary, Stuart Skinner's Game 6 start is a high-stakes situation with significant implications. It's a chance for him to prove his worth to the Oilers and solidify his position as their goalie, with his and the team's future hanging in the balance.
