Apr 1, 2025; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Edmonton Oilers left wing Viktor Arvidsson (33) celebrates with Edmonton Oilers goaltender Calvin Pickard (30) after scoring a goal against the Vegas Golden Knights during the second period at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

Oilers Give Injury Updates Ahead of Game 4

Originally posted on Breakaway on SI | By Nick Horwat | Last updated May 27, 2025 12:32 PM ET

The Edmonton Oilers are heading into Game 4 of the Western Conference Final looking to take a demanding 3-1 series lead. After dominating the Dallas Stars in Games 2 and 3, the Oilers are another step closer to returning to the Stanley Cup Final.

While the Oilers look to take a steep lead against the Stars, they will see a few lineup changes for Game 4.

According to Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch, forward Viktor Arvidsson will return to the lineup and goalie Calvin Pickard will return to serve as the backup.

Knoblauch says Ekholm won’t come back tonight. And Calvin Pickard will back up Skinner
— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) May 27, 2025

Arvidsson last played in Game 3 of the Oilers’ second-round series against the Vegas Golden Knights and has been a healthy scratch ever since. In nine playoff games this year, Arvidsson has a goal and three assists for four points while averaging just over 11 minutes of ice time.

Pickard took over for a struggling Stuart Skinner in the first round against the Los Angeles Kings, and never lost a contest. In six starts, Pickard is a perfect 6-0.

Since Pickard suffered an injury against the Golden Knights, however, the Oilers have turned back to Skinner who has found a new groove. In six starts since returning to the crease, Skinner has a 4-2 record with a .936 save percentage.

With Pickard returning to health and Skinner finding a rhythm, the Oilers will continue to roll with Skinner as the starter and welcome Pickard back as backup.

The Oilers have also been patiently waiting for the return of defenseman Mattias Ekholm, who hasn’t played since the regular season. To finish the regular season, Ekholm missed 10 of the final 11 games of the season.

Ekholm has been making progress towards a return, but Knoblauch says he will not be ready for Game 4 against the Stars.

This article first appeared on Breakaway on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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