EDMONTON – The stage is set for a pivotal Game 3 as the Edmonton Oilers prepare to face the Vegas Golden Knights at Rogers Place on Saturday night. With Calvin Pickard sidelined due to injury, Stuart Skinner is stepping back into the spotlight, tasked with leading the Oilers in their quest for a commanding series lead.
On the morning of May 10, 2025, the Oilers held their pre-game skate, but the absence of Pickard was felt strongly. The 32-year-old goaltender, who has been a cornerstone for the team during this playoff run, is listed as day-to-day with a lower-body injury. This injury reportedly occurred late in Game 2 when Tomas Hertl inadvertently fell on Pickard's leg, causing concern among fans and teammates alike.
Skinner, who has struggled in the postseason thus far with an 0-2 record, a 6.11 goals against average (GAA), and an .810 save percentage, now has the opportunity to redeem himself. "I’ve been here before, so nothing is that new to me," Skinner said after the morning skate. "It’s an opportunity for me to do my job and just give these guys a chance to win." His confidence is bolstered by a solid playoff performance last season, where he regained his starting position and helped the Oilers reach the Stanley Cup Final.
Head coach Kris Knoblauch expressed his faith in Skinner, recalling how the young goaltender bounced back during last year's playoffs. "We’re expecting [Skinner] to come in and deliver what he’s done before. He was in the situation last year after having a little break in the Vancouver series and came back and was a solid goaltender throughout that series against Vancouver and throughout the rest of the playoffs. I think he’s ready and we’re going to go from that," Knoblauch stated.
Skinner's track record against the Golden Knights provides some cause for optimism. In his last five starts against Vegas, he has posted a .914 save percentage, stopping 148 of 162 shots. More recently, in the current season, he has excelled against the Knights, achieving a .924 save percentage in three starts. This history could be crucial as the Oilers look to extend their series lead.
Meanwhile, the Golden Knights are also facing their own challenges. Key players Brayden McNabb and Brandon Saad are both listed as day-to-day, adding to the tension as they prepare for this critical matchup. McNabb, a vital part of Vegas's defense, suffered an injury in Game 2, while Saad's absence could impact their offensive strategy. Coach Bruce Cassidy acknowledged the depth of the team, stating, "We do have a lot of depth … so if that's the case here, it'll be no different than the past when guys have gone down. We've always done a good job of kind of stepping up."
As the Oilers approach this must-win game, the atmosphere in Edmonton is electric. Fans are rallying behind Skinner, hoping for a stellar performance to secure a 3-0 series lead. The excitement is palpable, with social media buzzing with reactions and predictions. Some fans expressed skepticism about Skinner’s ability to perform under pressure, while others remain optimistic, recalling his past successes.
"It’s a massive development in this series. Pickard has been excellent for the Oilers," commented Vegas hockey commentator Ryan Wallis. "Vegas will need to take advantage." This sentiment encapsulates the urgency of the moment for both teams as they navigate the high stakes of playoff hockey.
Skinner's performance will not only impact the outcome of Game 3 but could also shape the narrative of his career. Should he excel, it may solidify his role as the Oilers' go-to goalie, especially if Pickard's injury sidelines him longer than anticipated. Skinner's journey has been one of resilience, and he has the chance to rewrite his story once again.
As the puck drops tonight, all eyes will be on Skinner and the Oilers. Will they rise to the occasion and capitalize on the opportunity, or will the Golden Knights exploit the absence of Pickard? The stakes are high, and the answer will unfold on the ice in what promises to be an unforgettable playoff battle.
With the Oilers riding a six-game winning streak, the momentum is on their side, but playoff hockey is unpredictable. Every player knows that one game can change everything. The Oilers will need to stay disciplined and focused, as any mistakes could be costly against a formidable opponent like the Golden Knights.
In the end, the outcome of Game 3 is uncertain, but one thing is clear: the excitement of playoff hockey is alive and well in Edmonton. Fans will be on the edge of their seats, hoping for a thrilling victory and a chance to celebrate another step toward the Stanley Cup.
