Edmonton Oilers may be forced to place veteran on waivers after loss to Columbus
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The Edmonton Oilers lost by a score of 5-4 tonight to the Columbus Blue Jackets, which may force a critical decision on goaltending.
The Oilers' crease has been a hot subject of debate so far this season, with most of the discussion focused toward getting a playoff starter better than Skinner. However, they have a more urgent issue now with Pickard.
Oilers fans call to waive Pickard after loss to Columbus Blue Jackets
Pickard entered tonight's game with a brutal .836 save percentage, and it actually got worse. Making just 20 saves on 25 shots, Pickard's save percentage has now fallen to .830.
Simply put, that's just not goaltending at the NHL level. In fact, Pickard's numbers are far worse than Jack Campbell's were when he was placed on waivers.
None of the goals were particularly his fault tonight, but he's just failed to make the stops necessary to keep the Oilers in games. His record of 2-3-1 this season is extremely poor on a cup contending team.
Even Jake Walman appeared to show some frustration after the 5th goal, putting his arms up in the air in disbelief another puck went in.
Oilers players have reportedly made it clear to management they want Pickard to stay around, but the team simply can't keep playing a goalie at this level.
He's just a backup goalie, and that is a position the Oilers should be able to upgrade on without issue. Connor Ingram may be an option, but has struggled in the AHL.
It looks like it's time for Calvin Pickard. He served the team incredible well last year, but the Oilers just can't accept this results any longer. He may be placed on waivers soon for the Oilers to pick up a new backup.
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