Edmonton Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch expressed confidence in his team’s goalie situation following Game 4 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final. After Stuart Skinner was replaced early in the game, Calvin Pickard stepped in and helped lead the Oilers to a 5-4 overtime victory, tying the series 2-2. The discussion around Skinner’s performance and the goalie lineup has grown amid this crucial stage of the playoffs.
Coach Stands Behind Both Goalies Despite Early Goals Allowed
Stuart Skinner started Game 4 but allowed three goals on 17 shots during the first period, prompting Knoblauch to make the decision to pull him. Calvin Pickard then entered the net and made 22 saves on 23 shots, playing a key role in the Oilers’ comeback win. Knoblauch praised the performance of both goalies, emphasizing their importance to the team’s progress throughout the playoffs.
“Both goalies have been really good… for us to getting here. Stu, since (Game 3 against Vegas – when Pickard’s) injury came in and played some really good games, the Vegas series, and Dallas series. And anytime we haven’t been strong in front of him, it’s unfortunate. Like last night in the first period.”
—Kris Knoblauch, Edmonton Oilers coach
Knoblauch acknowledged that the team’s defense was not effective in front of Skinner during the first period, which complicated his performance. Despite that, the coach sees value in having a reliable goalie tandem to switch between during these critical moments.
“As a coach, we make that switch. ‘Picks’ comes in and makes some huge, huge saves (after goalie change). It’s nice we’ve got a nice tandem — they’re going back and forth, and each one has been really solid for us.”
—Kris Knoblauch, Edmonton Oilers coach
Examining the Goalies’ Current Playoff Records and Stats
Skinner’s playoff numbers include a 2.99 goals-against average, a 7-6 win-loss record, three shutouts, and a .891 save percentage. Before Game 4, he had won six consecutive starts in Game 4 situations, underscoring his usual reliability. Meanwhile, Pickard holds a perfect 7-0 record with a 2.69 goals-against average and a .896 save percentage, although he has not started a game since early in the series against the Vegas Golden Knights.
Game 4’s Dramatic Comeback Raises Starting Goalkeeper Questions
The Florida Panthers took an early lead in Game 4 with two power-play goals by Matthew Tkachuk and an even-strength goal from Anton Lundell, putting Edmonton down 3-0. The Oilers responded in the second period with Ryan Nugent-Hopkins scoring on a power play, Darnell Nurse adding a goal, and Vasily Podkolzin tying the game shortly after. In the third period, Jake Walman gave the Oilers a 4-3 lead, but the Panthers’ Reinhart tied it just before the end of regulation. Ultimately, Leon Draisaitl scored the winning goal in overtime.
With the series tied, the choice of starting goalie for Game 5 remains undecided. Knoblauch stated that no starter would be named before the team’s next game, reflecting a cautious and strategic approach as the Oilers prepare to return home to Edmonton for the upcoming match.
“I’m not going to name (a starter) yet,”
—Kris Knoblauch, Edmonton Oilers coach
The Importance of Goalie Stability in the Stanley Cup Finals
The decision about who will start in goal is a critical one for the Oilers as they try to navigate the intense pressure of the Stanley Cup Finals. Having two dependable goalies offers flexibility but also brings the challenge of maintaining consistency under high stakes. Knoblauch’s faith in both Skinner and Pickard shows the team’s reliance on their combined efforts.
Moving forward, the Oilers’ goalie performance, especially Stuart Skinner’s ability to rebound from setbacks, will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, as it could significantly affect the series outcome and Edmonton’s quest for the Stanley Cup.