Edmonton Oilers backup goaltender Calvin Pickard will be in the crease tonight as the team faces off against the Seattle Kraken. This start comes at a critical juncture for Pickard, who is attempting to move past what has been the most challenging stretch of his recent career.
A Streak of Struggles
Pickard has endured a difficult six-game cold streak, posting a save percentage of just .819 during that span. This marks the poorest performance by an Oilers netminder in several years. For context, the previous coldest run belonged to starter Stuart Skinner, who recorded an .857 save percentage over six games during the 2025 Stanley Cup Final.
The goalie showed a brief sign of breaking free from his struggles with a solid outing in a tight 2-1 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning. However, he faltered again in his next appearance, coming in to relieve Skinner against the Dallas Stars on November 25. In that game, Pickard allowed four goals over two periods of play.
The Critical Role of the Backup
The significance of a reliable backup goalie cannot be overstated in the NHL. When called upon, the backup immediately assumes the mantle of the team's number one goaltender. His performance carries weight equivalent to that of a top-line centre or a premier defenceman. Consequently, Pickard's extended run of poor form has been notably detrimental to the Oilers' fortunes.
Tonight's Opportunity for Redemption
The start against the Seattle Kraken presents a pivotal opportunity for Calvin Pickard. A strong performance would not only help secure two points for Edmonton but would also provide much-needed confidence for the goaltender and stability for the team's roster management. All eyes will be on Rogers Place to see if Pickard can successfully put distance between himself and the worst slump of his Oilers tenure.
