The Edmonton Oilers are in dire need of a bounce-back win after they let Game 1 slip away against the Los Angeles Kings. Now behind in the series, Edmonton will need to win Game 2 at home, lest they face a 2-0 deficit with the series returning to Los Angeles. Via Jack Michaels, Oilers coach Jay Woodcroft made a crucial decision on the Oilers' goaltending situation for the must-win game, electing to keep rolling with the veteran Mike Smith instead of backup Mikko Koskinen.

This is somewhat of a surprising decision, given Smith struggled mightily in Game 1, surrendering four goals in the loss. Smith recorded 31 saves on 35 shots on goal, but wasn't able to keep LA from taking the series opener in Edmonton. Despite his lackluster outing, Woodcroft feels more comfortable with the 40-year-old Smith between the sticks than he does with Koskinen.

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During the regular season, both Koskinen and Smith had peaks and valleys. Smith peaked towards the end of the year, enjoying a strong month of April and securing his spot as the playoff starter. Unfortunately, his success in the final month of the regular season didn't translate to Game 1, where he recorded a .886 save percentage.

Koskinen featured in 45 games this season for Edmonton, going 27-12-4 in his 43 starts. He recorded a .903 save percentage and surrendered an average of 3.10 goals per game. Smith played in just 28 games, recording a .915 save percentage with 2.81 goals allowed per game.

While Oilers fans may not love the decision to roll with Smith again in Game 2, it's hard to argue that Koskinen would be a more reliable option for them. With a crucial game looming on Wednesday night, Woodcroft is trusting his gut and going with the experienced goalie against the Kings.