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Oilers reveal life changing reason why Stuart Skinner will be absent from team
The Edmonton Oilers took to the ice for practice today without Stuart Skinner, and now broadcaster Jack Michaels has confirmed the reason why - Skinner is with his wife, expecting the birth of their child.
Skinner was absent from practice along with Darnell Nurse and John Klingberg, causing the Oilers to shake up their lineup significantly.
Oilers Broadcaster reveals reasons behind multiple absences at practice
According to Jack Michaels, Skinner is absent to be with his wife while expecting a child, Klingberg is dealing with immigration documents, and Nurse is questionable with an illness.
Given this update, it seems unlikely that any of these players will be available to play in tonight's game against the Seattle Kraken.
It was expected earlier this season that Skinner would be away from the team to be with his family at this time of year. At practice today, the Oilers brought up an emergency backup goalie.
When speaking about being cut from Team Canada earlier this season, Skinner actually mentioned it as a blessing in disguise - giving him time away from work to be with his newborn and young family. It's admirable that he's prioritizing his time with family.
There is a blessing in disguise, which is I get to be a father to a newborn baby for a little while. It'll be nice.
Oilers insider Daniel Nugent-Bowman revealed that Skinner was at the hospital with his wife last night for the delivery of their child.
It's possible that the Oilers could recall prospect Olivier Rodrigue for his NHL debut if Skinner is absent for a game or two.
Rodrigue has been the team's top goalie prospect since being drafted in the second round of 2018, and now has a .910 save percentage in the AHL at 24 years old.
Nurse could possibly be a game-time decision, but it's unlikely that Klingberg will slot in earlier than expected, and Skinner is with his family. Klingberg is currently expected to debut with the Oilers against the Red Wings.
We'll see if the Oilers make any roster moves before tonight's game and the next few days to address any potential absences, but they should be just fine.
The Oilers will be looking to keep their lead in the Pacific Division in tonight's matchup against the Seattle Kraken, and Connor McDavid will definitely be motivated in his return.
| POLL | ||
JANVIER 27 | 281 ANSWERS Oilers reveal life changing reason why Stuart Skinner will be absent from team Do you think the Oilers will give a game to Olivier Rodrigue if Skinner misses a game? | ||
| Yes | 176 | 62.6 % |
| No | 105 | 37.4 % |
| List of polls | ||