dailyloe.com – Stuart Skinner will start in goal for the Pittsburgh Penguins in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference First Round on Saturday. The Penguins will host the Philadelphia Flyers at 8 p.m. ET. Coach Dan Muse named Skinner the starter after an optional morning skate. Arturs Silovs will serve as the backup goaltender.
Muse announced his decision on Saturday, April 18, 2026. The Penguins are the No. 2 seed in the Metropolitan Division. The visiting Flyers are the No. 3 seed in the same division. The game will be broadcast on multiple networks.
Skinner expressed confidence in the team’s goaltending situation. He said the lineup would have a good goalie no matter the choice. Skinner stated they would have a good opportunity to win every series. He mentioned both he and Silovs know how to win games.
Coach Muse discussed the factors behind the lineup decision on Friday. He said many things go into any lineup decision. Muse noted different factors come up from team to team and year to year. He stated all information is good information for making a decision.
Muse emphasized that both goaltenders have been great for the team. He said both guys are a big part of why the Penguins are here today. The coach has reiterated this point multiple times. The decision reflects the team’s assessment of all factors.
Stuart Skinner was acquired by Pittsburgh on December 12. He came in a trade that sent goalie Tristan Jarry to the Edmonton Oilers. Skinner has played 27 games for the Penguins since the trade. Arturs Silovs has played 26 games in that same span.
Skinner’s record with Pittsburgh this season is 12 wins, 9 losses, and 5 overtime losses. He posted a 2.99 goals-against average and an .885 save percentage. Silovs recorded 19 wins, 12 losses, and 8 overtime losses. His stats include a 3.07 goals-against average and an .888 save percentage.
Arturs Silovs commented positively on the goaltending partnership. He said the experience has been great and that he likes Skinner as a guy. Silovs stated they are trying to be two pillars holding the net. He noted making the playoffs opens a new chapter to write.
The 27-year-old Skinner is fond of this time of year. He has reached the Stanley Cup Final the past two seasons. This playoff run is different for him, playing behind Sidney Crosby. He is now with the Pittsburgh Penguins instead of the Edmonton Oilers.
In most ways, the two goalies seem hard to differentiate. Stanley Cup Playoff experience is not one of those ways. Stuart Skinner has played 38 playoff games in his career. This experience is a factor as the Penguins begin their postseason.[]
Source: NHL.com
