Calvin Pickard Aims for Redemption in Oilers’ Face-Off Against Predators

In the heart of Nashville, the Edmonton Oilers are set to face off against the Nashville Predators at Bridgestone Arena Thursday night, with goaltender Calvin Pickard poised to make his second start of the season. This game marks the beginning of the Oilers’ first road trip of the season, with aspirations of building on their recent victory against the Philadelphia Flyers earlier this week.

Pickard, who is keenly aware of his need to deliver a strong performance, expressed optimism about the opportunity to bounce back following a challenging start against the Chicago Blackhawks. “It’s obviously a good chance to bounce back for me personally,” Pickard stated during a media session. “It wasn’t the start I wanted against Chicago, but you have to have a short-term memory in this league and it’s a great opportunity. It’s a fun place to play and looking to continue on from what we did the other night.”

Head Coach Kris Knoblauch plans to maintain the team’s momentum by utilizing the successful lineup from their recent victory over Philadelphia. This includes keeping the dynamic duo of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, who have started the season by showing their usual strong form, playing on the first line together.

“We’ve changed up the lines quite a bit through the start of the season,” Knoblauch remarked. “But we’ve done enough and we’re just trying to build off that victory from the other night.” He emphasized the importance of team consistency, while also expressing readiness to adjust strategies if necessary as they navigate the season.

Players such as Ryan Nugent-Hopkins look forward to demonstrating strong plays with teammates Vasily Podkolzin and Viktor Arvidsson, hoping for more time on even-strength shifts. “But from what I’ve seen so far, I really like their game,” Nugent-Hopkins said. “They’re both willing to go in, get to the dirty areas, work hard for pucks, and obviously, they have some skill to finish that off.”

The Oilers’ lineup showcases a blend of seasoned leadership and youth talent, with Leon Draisaitl, Connor McDavid, and Zach Hyman forming a formidable top line, supported by powerful defensive pairs such as Mattias Ekholm and Evan Bouchard. The anticipation is high as the Oilers aim to tally another win away from home.