Calvin Pickard, the 33-year-old goalie for the Edmonton Oilers, has stepped up in the playoffs after starting on the bench. Following two losses against the L.A. Kings, he took over as the starting goalie and led the team to three consecutive victories, including a crucial Game 5 win where he made 21 saves. Pickard's playoffs record is now 3-0 with a .904 save percentage and a 2.62 goals-against average.

Previously a backup, Pickard's regular-season performances included a 22-10-1 record. His resurgence highlights the depth in the Oilers' goaltending, which has been essential for their playoff success, especially after Stuart Skinner struggled early in the playoffs. Head coach Kris Knoblauch emphasized the importance of having two capable goalies as they aim for a deep playoff run.

In an intense playoff matchup, the Edmonton Oilers secured a crucial 3-1 victory over the Los Angeles Kings, taking a 3-2 lead in their first-round series. Mattias Janmark netted the tiebreaking goal early in the third period, while Evander Kane and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins also contributed to the scoreline. Calvin Pickard, the Oilers' goaltender, made 20 saves, leading to their third consecutive win and putting them one game away from advancing to the next round.

Despite a promising start, the Kings faltered after winning the first two games at home. They managed to score first in Game 5 with Andrei Kuzmenko's power-play goal, but the Oilers dominated possession throughout the game, outshooting Los Angeles 79-34 from the third period of Game 4 onwards. The Kings’ inability to maintain leads proved costly, as the Oilers turned the tide with strong offensive pressure.

Calvin Pickard will remain the starting goalie for the Edmonton Oilers in their crucial Game 5 against the Los Angeles Kings. Head coach Kris Knoblauch praised Pickard for his timely saves that have contributed to tying the series 2-2. After replacing Stuart Skinner in Game 2, Pickard has been instrumental in securing victories in Games 3 and 4.

Despite facing an average of 4.75 goals against per game, the highest in the playoffs, Pickard has managed a .889 save percentage and a 3.29 goals-against average in three postseason appearances. His regular-season performance saw him post a .900 save percentage with a 2.71 goals-against average, showcasing his ability to handle pressure during critical moments.

The Edmonton Oilers are gaining momentum in their playoff series against the Los Angeles Kings, having secured a critical 4-3 overtime victory in Game 4. This win evens the series at two games apiece, providing the Oilers an opportunity to enhance team chemistry as they head back to Los Angeles for Game 5. Players like Leon Draisaitl and Zach Hyman are returning from injuries, and their performance is crucial as they aim to build cohesion within the lineup.

Leon Draisaitl, who was sidelined for most of the regular season, commented on the benefit of extending the series for the team's collective confidence and performance. Despite missing key defenceman Mattias Ekholm, who remains out with injury, the Oilers capitalized on their special teams, scoring two power-play goals and holding the Kings scoreless on their opportunities. With Calvin Pickard in goal and a growing roster of healthy players, the Oilers believe they can secure an away win in Los Angeles.