Oilers reporter predicts three lineup changes for Game 6
Photo credit: Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports
Oilers reporter Preston Hodgkinson of the daily hive has predicted 3 lineup changes that need to be done prior to game six of the Stanley Cup finals.
These changes seemed to be necessary as the Oilers attempt to get back and tie this series' Game 6 is an elimination game.
Oilers need to insert Stuart Skinner
Hodgkinson states that the first change is going back to starting goaltender Stuart Skinner. Skinner has not looked as confident in his last two starts and was pulled in both games.
Skinner has a history of showing up in big-time moments, and there will be no brighter spotlight than these next two games. He has been the starter all season long and has once again helped this Oilers team get to the Stanley Cup Final. - Preston Hodgkinson
With Pickard Helping in that great game for come back, only to let five goals in in Game 5 it's safe to say the Oilers should turn their attention back to their starting goaltender.
John Klingberg should return
Bringing back John Klingberg would be another change that needs to occur. Despite his success, Troy Stecher has not been able to handle the Florida Panthers forcheck and appears to be outmuscled.
Klingberg who is a much larger defenceman has a better handle on the Panthers despite having a couple of tough games.
Klingberg has been great throughout these playoffs as he has been one of Stan Bowman's pickups that has come through in this playoff journey.
Trent Frederic needs to be scratched
The Oilers' trade deadline acquisition is not 100 per cent healthy, and his on-ice impact has been next to nothing on this playoff run. He was supposed to bring an element of sandpaper for this team but has wound up being a non-factor on most nights. - Preston Hodgkinson
The Oilers are now in crunch time and facing elimination, removing Frederick and adding a player like Kasperi Kapanen back into the lineup would give the Oilers more speed and help push the pace against the Panthers.
That remains to be seen on whether these changes will occur with Knoblauch, but one thing is clear the team needs to make changes if they have any hope of extending the series into a Game 7.
Source: Daily Hive
3 lineup changes the Edmonton Oilers should make for must-win Game 6
3 lineup changes the Edmonton Oilers should make for must-win Game 6
| POLL | ||
JUIN 15 | 673 ANSWERS Oilers reporter predicts three lineup changes for Game 6 Which lineup change would you consider for Game six for the Oilers? | ||
| Go back to Stuart Skinner | 353 | 52.5 % |
| Re-add John Klingberg | 171 | 25.4 % |
| Remove Trent Frederic | 149 | 22.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
