Preview of Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final between the Oilers and Panthers

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Edmonton sticks with Skinner in goal, juggles lines in bid to even series against Florida

Stuart Skinner has a history of success in Game 4s during the Stanley Cup Playoffs, and the Edmonton Oilers are counting on him to deliver once again in their matchup against the Florida Panthers. With Florida leading the series 2-1, Skinner's performance will be crucial in helping the Oilers even the score.

Skinner boasts an impressive record of 6-0 in Game 4s, with remarkable stats including a 0.83 goals-against average, .970 save percentage, and two shutouts in his last six appearances. Despite a tough loss in Game 3, Skinner remains in goal for Edmonton, who are implementing significant lineup changes to support him.

One of the key changes for the Oilers is the introduction of three new forward lines and three new defense pairs. Jeff Skinner will make his Cup Final debut, Connor Brown will join the top line with Connor McDavid and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, and Corey Perry will play on the fourth line alongside Mattias Janmark and Vasily Podkolzin.

On defense, Troy Stecher will make his Cup Final debut and be paired with Darnell Nurse, while Mattias Ekholm and Evan Bouchard will have new partners in Jake Walman and Brett Kulak, respectively. Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch believes these changes will provide a much-needed boost to the team.

Meanwhile, the Florida Panthers are sticking with their lineup after convincing wins in Games 2 and 3. Forward Brad Marchand emphasized the need to stay focused and not underestimate the Oilers, especially with their competitive spirit and strong leadership.

Historically, teams that have taken a 2-1 lead in the Stanley Cup Final have a strong chance of winning the series, with an 80.4 percent success rate. The Panthers are well aware of the opportunity ahead of them and are prepared to face a determined Oilers team looking to bounce back.



Source: NHL.com
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