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Kris Knoblauch Reveals Starting Goalie and Lineup Changes Ahead of Do-or-Die Game 4 in Florida

Originally posted on Blade of Steel | By Tom Banks | Last updated Jun 12, 2025 1:10 PM ET

The Edmonton Oilers saw Stuart Skinner struggle in net in Game 3, but now, Kris Knoblauch has named Skinner starter for a pivotal Game 4 in Florida.

With the series tied at 1-1 heading into Game 3 in Florida, the Edmonton Oilers were full of confidence, but unfortunately it wasn't their night as they fell 6-1 in a dominant performance from the defending Stanley Cup Champions.

While it wasn't all on Stuart Skinner, the goaltender allowed five goals on just 23 shots as he was promptly pulled from the game, prompting plenty of questions about the teams starter heading into Game 4.

After that loss, Head Coach Kris Knoblauch revealed it was something he would think about in the two days off between games, and now, he's officially made his decision, revealing his starter for a crucial Game 4 against the Panthers.

Unsurprisingly, given that Skinner has three shutouts in his last 10 post-season games, Knoblauch is sticking with him on the road, but if these struggles continue, Knoblauch has proven he can make a big decision that could turn a series and save the Oilers season.

For now though, they're sticking with Skinner on the back of a save percentage over .900 in six of his past 10 games, but with a mark of .881 and .783 in his past two games, it's safe to say that there are major concerns his struggles could lead to more disappointment for Oilers fans.

However, they remain confident heading into Game 4, and if they can pull out a win, the series is headed back to Edmonton tied at 2-2, and even if they lose, we saw them come back from 3-0 down a season ago, so it's safe to say that Skinner has a big job to do to avoid a similar deficit this time around.

This article first appeared on Blade of Steel and was syndicated with permission.

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