The Pittsburgh Penguins are making a strategic move with their goaltending choices. Stuart Skinner is set to start his second consecutive game, a rare occurrence since joining the team, as he takes on the Calgary Flames tonight after a 6-3 win in Seattle on Monday. This decision marks a shift in the team's strategy, as they've been consistently rotating goalies throughout the season, with a brief exception in November when Arturs Silovs was pulled early in two consecutive starts and removed from the rotation for a few games.
The decision comes with its pros and cons. Skinner has been exceptional since the Christmas break, boasting an impressive 5-1-0 record in his six starts. His performance has been stellar, allowing only one goal in four of those games, and he ranks highly in various statistical categories among goaltenders. However, Silovs has also shown promise, with a .927 save percentage in his last three games, despite taking on some tough losses and shootout performances.
The choice of Skinner over Silovs is influenced by the game sequencing. The Penguins face a more winnable opponent in Calgary, who are selling off pieces, compared to the formidable Oilers in Edmonton the next night. Skinner's performance against the Oilers in December, where he conceded five goals on 22 shots, highlights the challenge of facing former teammates. Additionally, Skinner's recent trend of playing every other game has raised concerns about his performance when called upon frequently.
The decision to start Skinner tonight offers a strategic advantage. By playing against the weaker team, the Penguins can hope for a better outcome in the big picture. Skinner's extra day off until Sunday's potential start provides an opportunity for a crucial third day of rest, which could benefit his performance in the long run. This choice presents a dilemma, as either option has its merits in the short term.
Ultimately, the decision reflects the benefits of a goalie rotation, especially in a condensed schedule. While it might not spell the end of traditional goalie rotation, it serves as a reminder of its importance. Skinner's performance and the team's strategic move will be crucial in determining the success of this approach.
