Oilers' Calvin Pickard Loses Game 5 Stanley Cup Final Start vs Panthers

Calvin Pickard is set to make his first career Stanley Cup Final start for the Edmonton Oilers in Game 5 against the Florida Panthers after a strong relief performance in Game 4, where he made 22 saves and helped the Oilers overcome a 3-0 deficit for a 5-4 overtime win. Pickard replaced Stuart Skinner during a difficult first period in Game 4, and head coach Kris Knoblauch chose to start him in Game 5 due to his recent success, despite the challenge of deciding between two capable goaltenders. Pickard, who has a 7-1 playoff record this season and has been instrumental in the Oilers' run, expressed excitement and confidence about the opportunity, calling it just another game and crediting the team's resilience. The Oilers are tied 2-2 in the series, making Game 5 pivotal, and while both goaltenders are trusted, Pickard's recent performances have earned him the nod to try to secure a crucial win at home. The decision reflects the team's belief in Pickard's ability to step up under pressure and the importance of momentum in this tightly contested Stanley Cup Final. The Oilers now hope Pickard can continue his strong play to help them advance toward a winner-take-all Game 7.