Oilers' Mike Smith out 1-2 weeks with partial tear in thumb

Edmonton Oilers goaltender Mike Smith (41) makes a save during first period NHL hockey action against the Toronto Maple Leafs. (Frank Gunn/CP)

Edmonton Oilers goaltender Mike Smith will need one-to-two weeks to recover after an MRI revealed a partial tear in a tendon in his thumb, according to head coach Dave Tippett.

Smith, 39, was expected to be the Oilers' No. 1 netminder, but has not been able to stay healthy. In only six starts this season, he's posting a .898 save percentage so far.

He started Edmonton's last game on Jan. 5 -- a 4-2 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Oilers' next game is scheduled for Saturday against the Ottawa Senators.

Tippett said Edmonton's plan is to recall goaltender Stuart Skinner from AHL Bakersfield as soon as possible, and he could be with the team Saturday pending COVID-19 testing results.

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