Oilers vs Panthers: Stuart Skinner gets start as Oilers face elimination against Panthers in Game 6 of Stanley Cup Final

The Edmonton Oilers turned once again to Stuart Skinner as their starting goaltender as they look to avoid elimination against the Florida Panthers in Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Final in Sunrise, Florida on Tuesday night.

Facing elimination, the Oilers trail the best-of-seven series 2-3. Skinner started the first four games of the Stanley Cup Final before being replaced by Calvin Pickard in Game 4. Pickard helped the Oilers to a win in that game but was in net for the Game 5 loss.

“Feeling good,” Skinner said after his team's morning skate. “Definitely know that I have the confidence of my teammates and the coaching staff.”


Skinner, who has a 2.99 goals-against average and a .899 save percentage this postseason, started the first four games of the Final before being replaced by Calvin Pickard.

He lost the starting job two games into the first round but regained it after Pickard was injured. Since then, he has had strong moments - most notably a stellar performance in the Western Conference Final against Dallas - as the Oilers continue their fight for the Cup.

On defense, John Klingberg draws back into the lineup, while up front, Kasperi Kapanen returns, replacing Viktor Arvidsson.

Head coach Kris Knoblauch and Oilers players have been quick to defend Skinner, stating he wasn’t to blame for the team falling behind 3-0 in Game 4

“He was really good. It was us that let him down,” Leon Draisaitl said. “He’s had incredible games this year. There’s just a trust factor that we know that he can get the job done for us.”

"John’s played some really good playoff hockey (and) there’s not much hesitation to have him play," Knoblauch said. “When (Kapanen is) dialed in, he’s a really good hockey player. ... He brings a little of everything.”

The Panthers are aiming to secure their second consecutive Stanley Cup title, with their first opportunity to clinch coming on home ice in Game 6.