Troy Stecher and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins are in focus as the Edmonton Oilers take on a must-win game 4

Time of India

a day ago

The Edmonton Oilers are at a turning point in the Stanley Cup final, trailing the Florida Panthers 2-1 in a best-of-seven series. After getting muffled for six goals in the third game, the Oilers are contemplating changes to turn their fortunes around.
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While the Oilers have stayed mum on the specific changes, possibilities on both defense and offense, mainly around Troy Stecher and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, are being seriously considered as the series heads into this crucial Game 4 at Amerant Bank Arena on Thursday night.
Would Troy Stecher and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins be the Oilers' big-time changes?
The Oilers are reconsidering their approach, and defenseman Troy Stecher is certainly in strong consideration for a starting role. While not often used in the playoffs, Stecher has delivered solid performances when called upon.
In the playoffs this year, he's gone six games with plus-3, logged good minutes, and earned a level of trust from the coaching staff as a solid defensive presence who rarely makes a mistake.
If Stecher indeed made the cut, he would very likely displace John Klingberg, who has lately been turning the puck over in ways that matter on goals for Florida.
Defensive lapses during late-stage games can cost a team dearly. John Klingberg committed defensive errors in Game 2 and Game 3, and despite performing well offensively in the postseason, the Oilers were on the receiving end of those costs.
With the stakes mounting with every handful of seconds and possession, perhaps a stronger defensive option like Stecher would be what the Oilers need to find some footing.
Concerns over the offensive front are around with Ryan Nugent-Hopkins attending practice today, but it will remain a game-time decision. The situation is ominous, given his 18 playoff points and his ability to affect play on special teams. If he does not play, Jeff Skinner could fill in with Connor McDavid and Corey Perry on the top line.
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In brief playoff appearances, Skinner has made an impact, most notably in the Western Conference Final.
The other side of the coin is the uncertain fate of the goaltenders; Stuart Skinner has failed to carry his load in this series, and this false start raises speculation that it could be Calvin Pickard's time. While Pickard has been largely untried in this particular round, he holds a 6-0 record in the playoffs and has shown steely resilience when it counted.
Also Read: NHL Rumor: Sam Bennett may reject Maple Leafs despite strong playoff run
With the Stanley Cup Final at its midpoint, some big adjustments now find the Oilers in contention for the reins of the series. With Troy Stecher and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins at the center of change, Game 4 could spell a turning point or exacerbate the Oilers' struggles if it does not go well.