Oilers Start Pickard in Game 5 Stanley Cup Final

The Edmonton Oilers have named backup goaltender Calvin Pickard as the starter for Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Final against the Florida Panthers, following consecutive pullings of Stuart Skinner in Games 3 and 4 due to poor performance. Pickard, with a 7-0 playoff record, 2.69 goals-against average, and .896 save percentage, delivered a critical 22-save performance in Edmonton's overtime Game 4 win. Coach Kris Knoblauch cited Pickard's key saves and the team's comeback as reasons for the change. Pickard has been noted for handling dangerous lateral plays more effectively than Skinner, conceding fewer goals on such opportunities. Both teams recognize that Pickard’s different style may necessitate tactical adjustments from the Panthers. With the series tied 2-2, Game 5 is pivotal in the Oilers’ pursuit of their first Stanley Cup since 1990.