Should Oilers Start Pickard More?

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Post on Feb 09, 2025

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Should Oilers Start Pickard More? A Goalie Controversy Brewing in Edmonton?

The Edmonton Oilers are facing a fascinating dilemma in net: should they give more starts to veteran goalie, Mike Smith's backup, Stuart Skinner? The question isn't simply about wins and losses; it's about the long-term health of the team and the potential of a rising star. This article delves into the arguments for and against increasing Stuart Skinner's ice time, examining the performances of both goalies and considering the implications for the Oilers' playoff push.

The Case for More Skinner

Skinner's emergence this season has been one of the Oilers' few consistently positive narratives. While Smith's veteran experience is undeniable, his injury history is a major concern. Skinner, on the other hand, has shown flashes of brilliance, displaying impressive athleticism and a calm demeanor under pressure. Giving him more starts offers several key advantages:

Reducing Smith's workload & risk of injury

Smith's age and injury history: Simply put, relying heavily on a goalie with Smith's injury history is a gamble. Giving Skinner more starts significantly reduces the risk of Smith suffering a season-ending injury, leaving the Oilers vulnerable in the crease. This is a crucial consideration, particularly during the intense playoff race.

Developing future talent

Nurturing Skinner's potential: Skinner represents a potential long-term solution in net for the Oilers. Giving him consistent playing time allows him to gain valuable experience, build confidence, and develop his skills under pressure. This investment in the future could pay significant dividends for years to come.

Fresh legs, better performance?

Preventing goalie fatigue: The NHL season is grueling, and goalies are particularly susceptible to fatigue. Sharing the workload between Smith and Skinner could lead to fresher, more effective performances from both players, ultimately benefiting the team as a whole.

The Case Against More Skinner

While the arguments for increased Skinner starts are compelling, there are counterpoints to consider:

Smith's Experience and Leadership

Veteran presence in the locker room: Smith's experience and leadership within the Oilers locker room are invaluable. He's a seasoned veteran who has played in high-pressure situations and knows what it takes to win in the playoffs. Removing him from the net too often could negatively impact team morale and overall performance.

Inconsistency in Skinner's performance

Maintaining consistency: Although Skinner has shown flashes of brilliance, he has also experienced inconsistencies in his play. Relying on him for a larger share of games involves accepting a higher degree of unpredictability.

The risk of disrupting team chemistry

A delicate balance: Changing the starting goalie mid-season can disrupt the team's rhythm and chemistry. The Oilers have shown some success with Smith in net; upsetting that balance could have unintended negative consequences.

Finding the Right Balance

The optimal solution likely lies in finding a balance between veteran experience and developing future talent. The Oilers coaching staff needs to carefully monitor both Smith's health and Skinner's performance, adjusting the starting assignments accordingly. A strategic approach that allows Skinner increasing playing time without jeopardizing the team's immediate playoff goals would be ideal. This might involve a more flexible rotation or focusing on giving Skinner starts in games that are strategically less critical.

The Oilers goalie situation is a complex one, with no easy answers. Ultimately, the decision of whether to start Skinner more rests on a careful assessment of risks and rewards, a balancing act that could define the Oilers' success this season and beyond. Only time will tell if the Oilers make the right choice.