Edmonton Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch had anticipated the team might need goaltender Stuart Skinner at some point during the playoff run.
That moment has arrived earlier than planned for Game 3 of the second-round series against the Vegas Golden Knights, necessitated by the health status of Calvin Pickard. The Oilers currently hold a 2-0 lead in the series.
Prior to the game, Knoblauch indicated that Pickard`s condition was being evaluated on a day-to-day basis.
During Game 2 in Las Vegas, Pickard appeared to be in discomfort and was seen shaking his left leg after Vegas forward Tomas Hertl fell on his left pad.
Despite this, Pickard completed the 5-4 overtime victory, making 28 saves, including all seven in the extra period. His teammates credited his performance as a significant factor in the Oilers returning to Rogers Place with a two-game advantage.
However, Pickard did not participate in the pre-game skate session on Saturday.
Tristan Blackwood