Kris Knoblauch pulls Stuart Skinner after just one period
Photo credit: NHL
The Edmonton Oilers are currently taking on the Colorado Avalanche, and head coach Kris Knoblauch has made the executive decision to pull goaltender Stuart Skinner after just one period.
I think it's safe to say that this hasn't been Stuart Skinner's best effort tonight.
Stuart Skinner looked shaky from the get-go, allowing 3 goals on just 12 shots.
It looks like Kris Knoblauch is sending a strong message to Skinner by pulling him from the net -- he simply hasn't been good enough. Now, Calvin Pickard will step in and try to ignite a spark for his team.
Stan Bowman still confident in Stuart Skinner
The NHL trade deadline is right around the corner, but GM Stan Bowman has stood firm on his belief that the Oilers goaltending is a non-issue.
According to Liam McCormick of Oilers Daily, The Edmonton Oilers are an elite all around team, ranking near the top 5 in offence and defence. Goaltending results have ranked average, but Bowman isn't convinced there needs to be an upgrade in the crease.
"Our goalies have been great (since November),» GM Stan Bowman said in a conversation with LeBrun. He added, «Calvin Pickard is 10-1 in his last 11 games. And Skinner's been excellent, too. Based on the performance of the team and their performance individually, they've done a really good job for us.»
-Stan Bowman
-Stan Bowman
According to NHL trade rumour, When discussing the idea of adding another, he talked about speculation that the team might be worried Skinner isn't good enough. It's an odd sentiment, considering he got the Oilers to within one game of a Stanley Cup win last season.
«So, I'm not sure where that comes from. We certainly believe in both of them, and we think they've been a big part of why our team has been so consistent over the last several months here.»
After tonight's first period, GM Stan Bowman may be re-thinking his position on a goaltender upgrade.
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