What's Happening?
Calvin Pickard, the goaltender for the Edmonton Oilers, is set to start in the upcoming road game against the New Jersey Devils. This will be Pickard's second start of the season. In his previous game,
he successfully stopped 14 of 15 shots, leading the Oilers to a 3-1 victory over the Vancouver Canucks. Historically, Pickard has performed well against the Devils, boasting a 4-1-0 record with a 1.79 goals-against average (GAA) and a .927 save percentage over six regular-season games. The New Jersey Devils currently hold a 3-1-0 record and rank eighth in goals per game with an average of 3.50 in the 2025-26 season.
Why It's Important?
Pickard's performance is crucial for the Oilers as they aim to maintain their competitive edge in the league. His past success against the Devils could provide the Oilers with a strategic advantage in the upcoming match. The game is significant for both teams as they seek to solidify their standings early in the season. For the Oilers, a strong performance by Pickard could reinforce their goaltending depth and boost team morale. For the Devils, facing a goaltender with a strong track record against them presents a challenge that could test their offensive capabilities.
What's Next?
The Oilers will look to capitalize on Pickard's strong historical performance against the Devils to secure another win. The outcome of this game could influence the team's strategy and lineup decisions in future matches. Both teams will likely analyze the game's results to adjust their tactics as the season progresses. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if Pickard can maintain his impressive record against the Devils and how the Devils will respond to this challenge.