Oilers’ Goalie Gamble: Can Pickard Steer Edmonton to Victory?
The Edmonton Oilers face a pivotal decision in Game 6: who will tend the net? The choice between Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard could define their playoff fate, as the Florida Panthers expose the Oilers’ vulnerabilities and strive for a Stanley Cup.
The Goalie Conundrum
In the playoffs, the trend of using one primary goalie is common. Starting 67% of Edmonton’s playoff games, Skinner’s role is somewhat atypical. His performance has been inconsistent, which is out of necessity.
In Game 1, Skinner played well, but he struggled in the following three games. This led to Pickard taking the ice. Although Pickard stabilized the team in Game 4 with an overtime comeback, he wasn’t as strong in Game 5, which placed the Oilers on the brink of elimination.
The pressure is on for Game 6, creating a difficult decision for the team. Connor Hellebuyck, the Winnipeg Jets’ primary goalie, played despite allowing early goals in Round 1 because he is their “ride-or-die” player. Similarly, pulling Jake Oettinger in the Western Conference final was a debated decision.
The Oilers don’t have a clear “ride-or-die” goalie. Skinner has been with the team longer, but his play has been too unpredictable to fully earn that status. Pickard offers a volatile element. For instance, in Game 4, he overcommitted to Carter Verhaeghe.
EKHOLM AND RNH DENY TKACHUK 🤯 pic.twitter.com/drv8vhRVKi
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) June 13, 2025
Even skilled goalies would find that play difficult. Mattias Ekholm and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins blocked the shot, keeping the score tied.
As a series goes deeper, teams get more information about their opponents. The Oilers aim to target Sergei Bobrovsky. Therefore, the Oilers’ goalie selection is particularly challenging, as the Panthers appear to have a strong grasp on both Skinner and Pickard.
Panthers’ Dominance
The Panthers have a powerful offense and defense, plus a top-tier goalie. This is a key reason for their repeated appearances in the Stanley Cup Final. The Oilers don’t have all three elements consistently, although their offense is potent.
Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Evan Bouchard lead the offense. The team defense can be strong, providing support for a possibly shaky goaltending duo. However, without that support, results like Game 5 can occur.
The Panthers’ forecheck and relentless style wear down opponents. In Game 5, they had 15 shot attempts from the home plate area. The Oilers managed only five, including McDavid’s goal.
The Panthers’ attack challenged Jeff Skinner, Adam Henrique, and Trent Frederic. Darnell Nurse, Jake Walman, and Troy Stetcher also struggled. The Panthers limited Edmonton’s best in the slot.
To stave off elimination, the Oilers must drive to the middle and keep the Panthers out. The Panthers are succeeding in this crucial area of play.
Marchand’s Impact
In Game 5, Brad Marchand scored two highlight-reel goals, driving to the middle of the ice. He was a force with two goals, a 15-5 edge in shot attempts, and an 89% expected goal rate. This earned him a game-high 4.59 Game Score, matching his postseason high.
He’s had an outstanding postseason, with 20 points in 22 games and a 62% expected goal rate. He has been a menace against the Oilers in the Final, proving his enduring value. His scoring may have declined, yet the Bruins were still better with him on the ice.
OH MY BRAD MARCHAND 😱😱😱 pic.twitter.com/YobdgBEsX8
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) June 15, 2025
Acquiring players always involves risk. Marchand’s skills fit perfectly in Florida. His role on the third line puts him in a beneficial position, and he is now showing his adaptability on the biggest stage. His versatility makes him an asset.
Still thinking about this goal from Brad Marchand 🤩
What a #StanleyCup Final he’s having 💪 pic.twitter.com/aIRA2MERmp
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) June 15, 2025
His value will increase, even at 37. Evolving-Hockey projects a three-year deal worth $7.19 million if he signs outside of Florida.
Offseason Moves
While the Panthers and Oilers compete, 30 other teams are already in the offseason. The Rangers have made changes, including hiring Mike Sullivan and trading Chris Kreider.
The return of former head coach David Quinn to the bench as an assistant is another storyline. Quinn had shortcomings in New York four years ago. The question is whether he has learned from his time in San Jose and Pittsburgh.
Quinn helped build the Rangers’ power play, which carried the team. He also improved the Penguins’ power play. He might help Mika Zibanejad’s scoring improve. But the Rangers need defensive help, and Quinn must deliver.
DeBoer’s Departure
The coaching carousel has spun again with Peter DeBoer’s dismissal from the Stars after a third straight elimination in the Western Conference Final. The offense faltering for the second year contributed.
Management has to find a coach who can take the team to the next level. Eight head coaches have been scooped up this summer. Potential candidates include Glen Gulutzan, the Oilers’ assistant coach, who designed a power play that contributed to the Stars’ elimination.
Another under-the-radar option might be Misha Donskov of the Columbus Blue Jackets, as pointed out by Aaron Portzline of *The Athletic*.
Draft Pick Implications
Pierre LeBrun of *The Athletic* reported that Utah is listening to offers on the fourth pick. A top-five pick hasn’t been moved after the draft order was determined since 2008. This move would create a new path from a trade perspective.
Tax Impact
Florida teams’ success has reignited the tax conversation. Teams like the Lightning and Panthers have benefited from players signing below market value, for instance, Sam Reinhart. Taxes influence player contracts, but it’s often overblown.
The Lightning and Panthers, along with the Stars and Golden Knights, are desirable because of their commitment to winning. Some players choose teams based on the opportunity to compete for championships. Forbes reports that players are attracted to teams in states with no state income tax.
Imbalances will fluctuate, and the CBA doesn’t address them all.
