Edmonton Oilers Goalie Out Again


The Edmonton Oilers have announced that goaltender Mike Smith is injured again, but for now, he is labeled as day-to-day. Due to this, the team has called up Ilya Konovalov from the taxi squad for Saturday afternoon's tilt against the New York Islanders. 

After missing over two months of action, Smith returned to the Oilers last week. Now, after just two appearances, he once again is forced to miss time. He also struggled since returning, as he allowed 10 goals on 74 shots. Needless to say, the 39-year-old was clearly rusty and may benefit from more time off. 

Smith's injury trouble and struggles these last two games should open the door for the Oilers to add another goaltender. At this point, the team should look for more insurance in net, especially if it's a player like Marc-Andre Fleury. Furthermore, they are 2-7-1 over their last 10 games, as Mikko Koskinen has also cooled off significantly. 

If Smith's injury becomes more serious from here, a trade surely will be on the way for Edmonton. If he is able to return shortly, it still needs to be considered. The franchise needs a change as soon as possible to get their season back on track. 

Photo Credit: © Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports