Calvin Pickard, the Edmonton Oilers’ goalie, cherishes his roots in Moncton, New Brunswick. This city, with a population of nearly 100,000, serves as the backdrop for Scotiabank Hockey Day in Canada. Pickard moved to Winnipeg, Manitoba, at the age of seven but retains fond memories of his early hockey experiences.
Celebrating Hockey Day in Canada
On Saturday, the 26th annual Hockey Day in Canada event will feature a packed schedule of NHL games. The action begins with the Calgary Flames facing the New York Islanders at Scotiabank Saddledome at 3 p.m. ET, followed by two matchups at 7 p.m. ET: the Toronto Maple Leafs against the Winnipeg Jets, and the Montreal Canadiens taking on the Ottawa Senators. The Oilers will later conclude the day by battling the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena at 10 p.m. ET.
Pickard’s Journey
Pickard’s hockey journey began in Moncton, where he played minor hockey for one year. Although he felt unhappy about the family move to Winnipeg, he fondly recalls the strong community and his time spent there. Pickard later advanced through junior hockey, being selected in the second round of the 2007 WHL Prospects Draft by the Seattle Thunderbirds and subsequently drafted by the Colorado Avalanche in the 2010 NHL Draft.
- 2007: Drafted by Seattle Thunderbirds.
- 2010: Selected by Colorado Avalanche in second round (No. 49).
- 2019: Joined the Edmonton Oilers.
Pickard has enjoyed significant success in the NHL, playing for several teams, including the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Philadelphia Flyers. Currently, he is in his third season with the Oilers, contributing to the team’s playoff runs in recent seasons.
Recent Performance and Current Challenges
Last season, Pickard achieved a 7-1 record with a 3.68 goals-against average in ten playoff games. This included critical performances against the Los Angeles Kings and Vegas Golden Knights. However, after a lower-body injury, he returned to play in the Stanley Cup Final, where he helped the Oilers reach game four.
This season, despite facing challenges, Pickard holds a record of 5-6-2, with an .871 save percentage and is part of a three-goalie rotation that includes Tristan Jarry and Connor Ingram. Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch stated the team is still assessing how to manage their goalies as they navigate the current situation.
Moncton’s Hockey Community
As Moncton shines in the spotlight due to Hockey Day in Canada, Pickard expresses his excitement for his hometown. He fondly recalls attending games of the Moncton Wildcats during his childhood, underscoring the city’s strong hockey culture. Pickard believes this event will highlight Moncton’s commitment to the sport.
“It’s a great hockey community,” Pickard stated. “I’m excited for the city to be showcased during this special occasion.” His connection to Moncton remains strong, making this event particularly meaningful for him and the local community.
