Projected Lineup Alert: Pickard Starts and Lazar Debuts for Oilers vs Devils Showdown
On Saturday afternoon, the Edmonton Oilers will face the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center. Goaltender Calvin Pickard is set to start for the Oilers, marking his second game of the season. His performance will be crucial as the team kicks off a back-to-back series against the Devils.
Player Debuts and Lineup Changes
Forward Curtis Lazar will make his highly anticipated debut with the Oilers. Previously a player for the Devils, Lazar will skate on the right wing of the fourth line alongside David Tomasek and Adam Henrique. This game represents a significant moment for Lazar, as he reunites with former teammates.
- Calvin Pickard – Starting Goaltender
- Curtis Lazar – Club Debut
- David Tomasek – Fourth Line Partner
- Adam Henrique – Fourth Line Partner
Winger Isaac Howard is a healthy scratch for this matchup. Centre Noah Philp joins him on the sidelines. Defencemen Alec Regula (upper body injury) and Jake Walman (undisclosed injury) will also miss the game, adding to the team’s challenges.
Forward Line Compositions
Head Coach Kris Knoblauch plans to mix things up with his forward lines. Notable lineup changes include:
- First Line: Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Connor McDavid, Andrew Mangiapane
- Second Line: Leon Draisaitl, Vasily Podkolzin, Kasperi Kapanen
- Third Line: Trent Frederic, Matt Savoie, Jack Roslovic
These adjustments aim to enhance team synergy as they take on a challenging Devils squad. The Oilers will conclude the back-to-back games against the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena on Sunday, with Stuart Skinner expected to return as the starting goaltender for that match.
This matchup is critical for both teams as they look to build momentum early in the season. Fans will be eager to see how Lazar performs with his new team and if Pickard can deliver a strong performance in goal.
