The Edmonton Oilers' decision to trade goaltender Stuart Skinner to the Pittsburgh Penguins on December 12, 2025, has sparked considerable debate among hockey analysts and fans alike, with many questioning whether the team moved too soon on the young netminder. Skinner, an Edmonton native, had been a fixture in the Oilers' crease for the past several seasons, even helping the team reach the Stanley Cup Final in the two prior seasons.
Skinner's journey with the Oilers began after being drafted in the third round (78th overall) in 2017. He steadily climbed through the ranks, showcasing his talent in the American Hockey League before finally earning a permanent spot on the Oilers' roster. In the 2022-23 season, Skinner truly emerged as a reliable goaltender, earning a three-year, $7.8 million contract and even participating in the 2023 NHL All-Star Weekend. That year, among rookies who played at least 10 games, he topped the list in wins (29) and games played (50), while also ranking third in save percentage (.914) and fifth in goals-against average (2.75). He was also named a finalist for the Calder Trophy.
However, Skinner's performance in the 2024-25 season proved to be his most challenging. While he maintained a decent 26-18-4 record, his goals-against average rose to 2.81, and his save percentage dipped to .896 over 51 regular-season games. Despite these struggles, Skinner started the postseason as the team's top goalie, but his inconsistent play led to him being replaced by Calvin Pickard at times, including during the Stanley Cup Finals.
Despite the ups and downs, Skinner provided some unforgettable moments. In the 2024 playoffs, he earned the moniker "Mr. Game 4" after stellar performances in Game 4s, including his first career playoff shutout against the Los Angeles Kings. In a series against the Dallas Stars, Skinner stopped 34 of 35 shots in Game 6, helping the Oilers advance.
The decision to trade Skinner appears particularly questionable given his history with the team and the potential he still possesses. At 27 years old, Skinner has the potential to rebound and solidify himself as a top-tier goaltender. His familiarity with the Oilers' system and his strong relationship with his teammates were also valuable assets.
The Oilers' management likely considered several factors when making the trade, including Skinner's recent performance, the emergence of Calvin Pickard, and the team's overall salary cap situation. However, the move carries significant risk. Goaltending is a notoriously unpredictable position, and finding a reliable starter is a difficult task. The Oilers are now banking on Pickard to carry the load, a gamble that could backfire if he fails to perform consistently.
As Skinner embarks on a new chapter with the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Oilers may come to regret their decision to trade him away. Only time will tell if they made the right choice, but for now, many believe that Edmonton should have kept Stuart Skinner. His recent performance with the Penguins has been shaky, with a .810 save percentage.
