Pickard Shines As Perry Nets in Oilers’ 4-2 Victory

Summary:
- The Edmonton Oilers defeated the Seattle Kraken 4-2, reclaiming first place in the Pacific Division.
- Mattias Ekholm contributed a goal and an assist, while Mattias Janmark, Connor McDavid, and Corey Perry also scored.
- Goalie Calvin Pickard was solid in the net, making 26 saves.
The Edmonton Oilers defeated the Seattle Kraken 4-2 on Monday, marking their third consecutive victory and 11th win in 14 games.
The Oilers (32-15-3) pushed a point ahead of the idle Vegas Golden Knights who they beat on earlier this month and reclaimed the top spot in the Pacific Division.
Mattias Ekholm led the way with a goal and an assist, while Mattias Janmark, Connor McDavid, and Corey Perry also found the back of the net.
Pickard Made 26 Saves
Calvin Pickard, who boasts a 13-4-0 record this season, including nine wins in his last 10 starts, stood tall in net, making 26 saves to anchor the win.
We’re an explosive team, We expect to come back in games and play really well when we’re down.
His performance continues to be a revelation for Edmonton. “He’s a rock,” said Perry, commenting on Pickard. “He goes in there, plays hard, and gives us a chance to win every night.”
Pickard’s unexpected journey to becoming a key contributor began last year when starter Jack Campbell struggled, thrusting Stuart Skinner into the primary role and opening a door for the Moncton-born.
Initially seen as a temporary backup, he proved his worth with clutch performances, including a playoff win against Vancouver.
On Monday, Pickard got the start as Skinner welcomed the birth of his son.
I knew it was close to kid time
Breakaway Goal From Perry
The Kraken (22-26-3) led 2-1 after the first period, thanks to Eeli Tolvanen’s and Vince Dunn’s goals.
The Oilers were resilient, and Janmark’s deflection tied the game late in the first. It was his first goal since December 22.
The turning point came in the second period when Darnell Nurse’s pinpoint pass set up Perry for a breakaway goal, putting Edmonton ahead 3-2.
The 39-year-old veteran, a former 50-goal scorer, showed his finesse by confidently scoring his ninth goal of the season.
Seattle’s leading scorer, Jared McCann, was held scoreless for the 15th straight game without a non-empty-net goal.
Edmonton has dominated Seattle historically, boasting an 11-2 record, outscoring them 51-31 over seven straight wins.
Up next, the Oilers will face the Detroit Red Wings at Rogers Place on Thursday. The Kraken will meet the Anaheim Ducks at the Climate Change Arena on Tuesday.