The Edmonton Oilers are making two significant changes ahead of a near must-win Game 4 against the Anaheim Ducks.
In goal, Tristan Jarry will get the start after Connor Ingram handled the first three games of the series. Ingram allowed 11 goals over that stretch, and with Edmonton trailing 2–1, the team is looking for a spark.
Jarry’s numbers this season haven’t been strong, but the Oilers are hoping a change can help stabilize things. That said, goaltending isn’t the only issue—Edmonton must cut down on high-danger chances if they want to even the series.
Knoblauch said before the game they always knew they would likely need two goalies throughout the playoffs. "Hopefully Jarry's going to steal a game and go on a run." The coach added that Jarry has been professional throughout the process and didn't feel slighted.
Up front, Jason Dickinson is expected to return after missing Games 2 and 3 with an injury. A key deadline addition, Dickinson brings defensive reliability and lineup balance, giving head coach Kris Knoblauch more flexibility as the Oilers try to bounce back.
Knoblauch said of Dickinson's return, "We're expecting him being ready. We didn't want to push it. A little break was good. You know, if it was a Game 7 situation, I'm certain that he would have played that, but just something that we felt, we needed him for the long run. Just giving him that little rest, hopefully has improved his situation and he can play as he was playing."
Coach Knoblauch spoke with the media ahead of tonight's #Oilers vs. Ducks Game 4 in Anaheim, confirming Jarry in net, Dickinson's availability & more.@Enterprise | #LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/9zPaeJFEr8
The Oilers are solid in Game 4s for the playoffs. Knoblauch noted that Game 4s are often must wins and knowing this team plays best when their backs are up against a wall, he expects a much better effort on Sunday night.
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