Regardless of being lower than every week into the NHL season, early considerations have plagued a handful of groups. Amongst them, the Edmonton Oilers had early goaltender worries. In a lackluster efficiency, the Oilers bought blown out by a rating of 6-0 of their season opener in opposition to the Winnipeg Jets. Stuart Skinner was pulled and Calvin Pickard got here on in aid. It is going to be Pickard who will get the starter position in Saturday’s matchup in opposition to the Chicago Blackhawks.
This isn’t nearly Skinner’s efficiency because the Oilers have back-to-back video games this weekend, partially explaining why tonight will mark Pickard’s first common season motion.
Pickard discovered himself enjoying the final half-hour of the season opener after coming in aid of Stuart Skinner. Pickard discovered a solution to keep calm and cease the bleeding, though the Oilers didn’t present as much as play. He solely allowed one aim in opposition to. The hope is he can lead the Oilers to their first win of the season in opposition to Connor Bedard and firm.
After beginning final season within the AHL, Pickard proved himself as an NHL-caliber goalie final season. Regardless of not getting his first begin until December, Pickard logged a .909 save share and a 2.45 goals-against common in 23 video games. His skill to return into high-pressure conditions and persistently give the Oilers a second likelihood is a extremely worthwhile asset for Edmonton. Particularly contemplating the inconsistency that has seemingly plagued the Oilers for years.
Pickard’s Contract Extension
Pickard performed a serious position within the Oilers’ playoff success final 12 months. Utilizing his skill to jumpstart a workforce, he gave the Oilers a second likelihood of their intense Spherical 2 matchup in opposition to the Vancouver Canucks, successfully saving their season. This, alongside together with his glorious and dependable common season play earned him a well-deserved two-year contract extension.
Pickard seems to be to provide the Oilers an opportunity to proper a mistaken on opening evening. The disappointing blowout loss has raised considerations. The Oilers and Pickard look to close down within the season’s first back-to-back recreation state of affairs.
Subsequent: Oilers Re-Signing Goaltender Calvin Pickard to 2-Yr Extension
