Stuart Skinner No Longer The Edmonton Oilers Number One Goaltender?

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Kevin
November 8, 2023 (6:07 PM)

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Calvin Pickard's call-up from the Bakersfield Condors to the NHL has sent ripples of excitement through the Edmonton Oilers' fan base. With an impressive 2.70 goals-against average (GAA) and a solid .912 save percentage (SV%) in the AHL, Pickard's potential to claim the number one goaltending job away from Stuart Skinner is very much a possibility.

Picard's journey from the AHL to the NHL is a testament to his hard work and dedication. He has been honing his skills in the minor leagues, patiently waiting for his opportunity to shine on the grand stage. His standout performance in Bakersfield indicates that he's ready to make the leap and compete at the highest level.

The key to Pickard's potential success is his consistency. A GAA of 2.70 in the AHL is an excellent indicator of his ability to keep pucks out of the net. His .912 SV% further underscores his proficiency in making critical saves. These statistics demonstrate that Pickard can provide the Oilers with the stability they need in the crease.

Stuart Skinner, the current starting goaltender for the Oilers, has shown promise but has also experienced some ups and downs. This creates an opening for Pickard to step in and challenge for the number one spot. Competition among goaltenders can be healthy for a team, pushing both individuals to perform at their best.

Pickard's style of play is characterized by his athleticism and quick reflexes, making him an agile and reactive netminder. His ability to read the play and track the puck effectively is a crucial asset in the fast-paced NHL.

The potential for Calvin Pickard to take the number one goaltending job away from Stuart Skinner is a storyline that Oilers fans will be eagerly following. If he can maintain his AHL form and adapt to the challenges of the NHL, he may very well become the go-to netminder for Edmonton, providing the team with a reliable last line of defense as they aim to make a playoff push.

Only time will tell, but Pickard's call-up is a clear sign that the Oilers believe he has what it takes to make a significant positive impact.