Oilers goalie Stuart Skinner struggled massively early on this playoffs, but now he's found his game and Mikko Rantanen has named him the difference maker of Game 3.
Mikko Rantanen names Stuart Skinner as Oilers difference maker in Game 3
The Stars' star forward didn't hold back in his praise for the Oilers goaltender, rightfully pointing out that Skinner held the fort while under attack in critical parts of the game, allowing Edmonton's offence to take over.
I think Skinner was the difference maker tonight. He was really good, made key saves when it was 3-1, Seguin had a Grade A in the slot and he makes a save. 10 seconds later, it's 4-1, so he was the MVP.
For Stuart Skinner personally, this is another report towards a huge comeback after losing the crease in the first 2 games of the playoffs.
Until Game 3, Skinner had been all or nothing - allowing a save percentage in the low .800s, or securing a shutout. Game 3 was the first «normal» game by that sense, and hopefully goes a long way for Skinner's confidence. It's something he really needed - and even opened up about his anxiety after the game.
I'm proud of myself for going through everything that I've had to go through personally. It takes a lot of courage to keep on getting up.
Well, now Skinner is up. If he can keep riding his recent level of success for the next few games, the Oilers will be able to punch their ticket back to the Stanley Cup Final.