The Edmonton Oilers might be without Calvin Pickard longer than expected. As Game 4 against the Vegas Golden Knights approaches, doubts about the goalie’s availability are growing. Though the team has labeled him “day-to-day,” NHL insider Darren Dreger says Pickard could miss at least a week.
Edmonton Oilers Facing Goalie Setback as Calvin Pickard Injury Lingers
Pickard was injured late in Game 2 following a collision with Tomas Hertl. He stayed in the game and helped the Oilers pull off a 5-4 overtime win, but things changed after the final whistle. Speaking on Edmonton Sports Talk, Dreger said the goaltender “will probably be out at least a week,” putting his status for the rest of the series in doubt.
"I'm told it`ll probably be at least a week…"@DarrenDreger on Calvin Pickard
— Lieutenant Eric (@Lieutenant_Eric)
The timing couldn’t be worse. Pickard had been a calming presence in the crease, going undefeated through six playoff games. While his numbers weren’t elite, he brought stability and confidence—two qualities the Oilers desperately needed in net.
Stuart Skinner Back in Net, Results Mixed
With Pickard sidelined, Stuart Skinner returned as the starter for Game 3. He gave up four goals on 24 shots, including a last-second game-winner that sealed the win for Vegas. The Oilers may have lost some momentum despite still leading the series 2-1.
Coach Kris Knoblauch defended Skinner after the game. He said the team didn’t do enough to help their goalie. “It’s a tough situation; I think he made some really big saves, especially early in the game on the penalty kill,” Knoblauch told NHL.com. “And I don’t think there were any bad goals, it was just that we put him out in difficult situations to defend.”
Still, Skinner’s playoff numbers are concerning. A 5.36 goals-against average and a save percentage below .820 have raised eyebrows among fans and the media.
The Oilers recalled Colin Delia from the AHL to prepare for the worst. While the move is officially for depth, it suggests Pickard’s return isn’t imminent. Delia hasn’t played much this season, but he gives the team another option if needed.
Looking ahead, the Oilers will need to tighten up defensively. Forward Zach Hyman said he believes in the team’s goalies but emphasized playing smarter hockey. “We have a formula that works, and we’ve got to get back to it,” he said.
Pickard’s absence adds uncertainty at a critical point in the series. Soon, the Oilers will be tested to see whether they can steady themselves and hold off the Golden Knights without him.