Edmonton Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner didn't hold back his disappointment after a recent game against his former team, the Pittsburgh Penguins. In a contest filled with emotional reunions and significant milestones, Skinner's frustration was palpable despite the Oilers' 6-4 victory. The unusual circumstances surrounding the game seemed to contribute to Skinner's discontent, leading him to describe the encounter as "super weird".
The December 16th game was particularly noteworthy, featuring a goaltender duel between Skinner and Tristan Jarry, both facing their former teams just days after a significant trade between the Oilers and Penguins. Adding to the narrative, Leon Draisaitl marked his 1,000th NHL point during the same game. Despite the win and Draisaitl's achievement, Skinner's post-game comments indicated a lingering dissatisfaction with his own performance.
"Super weird" was the phrase Skinner used to encapsulate the experience of playing against his old teammates so soon after the trade. While he didn't elaborate on the specifics, it's likely that the familiarity with the Penguins' shooters and the pressure of performing well against them played a role in his mindset. The rapid adjustment required after a major trade can be challenging for any player, and Skinner's comments suggest that he felt the weight of those circumstances.
Skinner's frustration isn't entirely new. Back in November 2024, after a win against the Vancouver Canucks, Skinner visibly showed his annoyance, smashing his stick. This display of emotion was linked to a late goal he allowed, even though the Oilers secured a 7-3 victory. At the time, commentators noted that Skinner's reaction might indicate an overemphasis on personal stats, which were, at the time, not up to par.
His performance in the 2025 season opener against the Calgary Flames also drew criticism. A miscommunication leading to a goal early in the third period shifted the game's momentum, ultimately resulting in a shootout loss for the Oilers.
However, Skinner has also demonstrated resilience and a capacity for growth. Following the Oilers' loss in the Stanley Cup Final against the Florida Panthers last season, Skinner admitted that he initially struggled to process the disappointment. He acknowledged that he had suppressed his feelings, which later resurfaced. Skinner has emphasized the importance of learning from that experience and moving forward. "If I'm going to be completely honest here, I thought I put it (disappointment) away quickly last year, but definitely internally there was something buried," Skinner said in June 2025.
Despite any current frustrations, Skinner remains a crucial part of the Oilers' aspirations. His ability to bounce back from setbacks has been evident throughout his career. As the Oilers navigate the season, Skinner's performance in net will be vital to their success.
