Calvin Pickard's performance in net for the Edmonton Oilers has been pivotal as they face the Los Angeles Kings in the playoffs. With the team trailing 2-1 in the series, Pickard stepped up with 24 saves during a crucial Game 3 victory, showcasing clutch saves that were instrumental in the Oilers' 7-4 comeback win. Coach Kris Knoblauch praised Pickard's ability to deliver under pressure, notably stopping key chances from players like Quinton Byfield.

Pickard has had a strong run lately, especially after taking over for Stuart Skinner, who suffered a concussion. His playoff experience includes a 1-1 record last season against the Vancouver Canucks, and he has been key for the Oilers, finishing the regular season with a solid 22-10-1 record. His ability to maintain a .900 save percentage and a 2.71 goals-against average reinforces his reliability as the Oilers aim for playoff success.

The battle between the Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings has highlighted a critical factor this postseason: special teams. In Game 2, the Kings showcased their power-play prowess, netting three goals, leading to a decisive 6-2 win and a commanding 2-0 series lead. With an impressive 50% power-play success rate (5-for-10) so far, the Kings have effectively capitalized on their opportunities while the Oilers have faltered, going 0-for-5 on the power play.

Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch acknowledged that improvements are essential, particularly in their penalty-killing efforts. Edmonton's struggles contrast sharply with the previous year when their special teams were pivotal in their playoff run. Evander Kane's penalty for cross-checking set the stage for Brandt Clarke's first-ever playoff goal. As both teams prepare for Game 3, the Oilers must find their rhythm on special teams to have any hope of turning the series around.

Following a tough Game 1 loss, Edmonton Oilers goalie Stuart Skinner is optimistic heading into Game 2 against the Los Angeles Kings. Despite surrendering six goals, Skinner's captain Connor McDavid expressed confidence in him, emphasizing the importance of team support. Coach Kris Knoblauch indicated a potential goalie rotation with Skinner and backup Calvin Pickard as they navigate the playoffs. Skinner's recent injury gave him time to reflect, and he aims for a steady performance moving forward.

Leon Draisaitl's pursuit of a 50-goal season has hit a snag as the Edmonton Oilers prepare for a crucial matchup against the Winnipeg Jets. The star forward is doubtful to play due to an undisclosed injury sustained during a recent game against Utah. Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch emphasized the importance of being cautious with Draisaitl's health as the playoffs approach, indicating that the team wants him at 100% when he returns.

Knoblauch stated that the decision to rest Draisaitl is strategic, especially as the team aims for home-ice advantage in the playoffs. Without their leading scorer, who boasts 49 goals and 101 points this season, the Oilers will need other players to step up. This includes potential adjustments to the lines, particularly affecting the depth scoring that has recently improved.

Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers and Tyler Myers of the Vancouver Canucks are facing potential suspensions following their penalty infractions during a game on Saturday. The NHL has scheduled disciplinary hearings for both players due to cross-checking incidents that occurred in the closing minutes of the Canucks' narrow 3-2 victory.

McDavid received a penalty for cross-checking Vancouver's Conor Garland, while Myers was penalized for his hit on Oilers' Evan Bouchard. Edmonton's head coach Kris Knoblauch defended McDavid, arguing that the play should have been blown dead earlier due to Garland's hold on McDavid, which he felt contributed to the frustration leading to the penalty.

Former NHL players have weighed in, supporting McDavid's aggressive play as a necessary response to being held. As the three-time Hart Trophy winner, McDavid's absence from the lineup would be a significant setback for the Oilers, particularly given his impressive stats this season with 20 goals and 45 assists.