As the Edmonton Oilers navigate the off-season following their second consecutive Stanley Cup Final loss, a familiar question mark looms over their goaltending situation. Stuart Skinner, the 26-year-old Edmonton native, finds himself at the center of trade speculation, with some suggesting that a change in net is "inevitable" for the Oilers to finally hoist the Stanley Cup.
Skinner, who will turn 27 in November, has been the Oilers' primary goaltender for the past two seasons, leading them to the Final. However, his performance has been inconsistent, with flashes of brilliance mixed with periods of struggle. While he recorded a 29–14–5 record with a .914 save percentage in the regular season at one point, his save percentage dipped to .896 last season and further to .889 in the playoffs.
The Oilers' management faces a critical decision regarding Skinner's future. He is entering the final year of his contract, which carries a cap hit of $2.6 million. With the salary cap expected to increase, the Oilers could lock him in for a longer term at a higher price. However, they must weigh the risks of investing further in a goaltender who has yet to prove he can consistently perform at a championship level.
One former Oiler has voiced a compelling argument against trading Skinner, emphasizing the importance of patience and stability in the goaltending position. He argues that Skinner has shown immense potential and has the mental fortitude to bounce back from setbacks. Furthermore, at only 26 years old, Skinner is still developing and has the potential to reach his peak in the coming years.
The argument also highlights the challenges of acquiring a proven, elite goaltender via trade. Such players are rarely available, and the cost in terms of assets would be significant. Trading for a goalie is also a gamble. There's no guarantee that a new goalie will perform better than Skinner or that they will mesh well with the team.
Moreover, constantly changing goaltenders can be detrimental to team chemistry and overall performance. Goaltenders need time to adjust to a new team, system, and teammates. A revolving door in the crease can create uncertainty and undermine the team's confidence.
Skinner's journey to the NHL has been one of perseverance. Drafted by the Oilers in the third round in 2017, he honed his skills in the Western Hockey League and the American Hockey League. He spent time with the Wichita Thunder in the ECHL before making his mark with the Bakersfield Condors, where he secured a league-best 20 wins in 2021. Skinner's resilience and dedication have earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to trade Skinner rests on the Oilers' assessment of his potential and their overall strategy for building a championship team. While the allure of acquiring a "proven" goaltender may be tempting, the Oilers must carefully consider the risks and rewards of such a move. Patience, stability, and belief in Skinner's ability to develop into an elite goaltender may ultimately be the best path forward for the Oilers.
