- Wed Nov 13, 2024 4:25 pm
#1878
It's always fascinating to dive into the intricacies of goaltending in the NHL, and the situation with the Oilers is a prime example of how crucial skating ability is for a netminder. The article highlights a significant issue with both Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard, and it's hard to argue against the notion that a goaltender's lateral movement can make or break their performance.
Take Skinner, for instance. His solid positional play is commendable, but if he can't move laterally with confidence, it leaves him vulnerable to plays that involve quick passing. That one-timer from Palmieri is a perfect illustration of how a lack of edgework can lead to goals that should be preventable. In high-stakes games, those moments can be the difference between a win and a loss.
Then there's Pickard, who seems to struggle with both positioning and skating. His tendency to scramble can lead to chaotic situations in the crease, which is never a good sign for a team looking to contend. While he has decent stats, relying on him for a heavier workload could expose those weaknesses even further.
The Oilers definitely need to consider their goaltending situation if they want to make a serious run for the Cup. With the talent they have on offense, it would be a shame to see it wasted due to inconsistent goaltending. A solid, reliable goaltender who can skate well and handle lateral movements could be the key to unlocking their full potential. What do you think? Should they prioritize a goaltender in their trade talks, or focus on bolstering their defense first?
Take Skinner, for instance. His solid positional play is commendable, but if he can't move laterally with confidence, it leaves him vulnerable to plays that involve quick passing. That one-timer from Palmieri is a perfect illustration of how a lack of edgework can lead to goals that should be preventable. In high-stakes games, those moments can be the difference between a win and a loss.
Then there's Pickard, who seems to struggle with both positioning and skating. His tendency to scramble can lead to chaotic situations in the crease, which is never a good sign for a team looking to contend. While he has decent stats, relying on him for a heavier workload could expose those weaknesses even further.
The Oilers definitely need to consider their goaltending situation if they want to make a serious run for the Cup. With the talent they have on offense, it would be a shame to see it wasted due to inconsistent goaltending. A solid, reliable goaltender who can skate well and handle lateral movements could be the key to unlocking their full potential. What do you think? Should they prioritize a goaltender in their trade talks, or focus on bolstering their defense first?
- By Anonymous