Edmonton Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner has set ambitious goals for the upcoming 2025-26 season, publicly stating his aspirations to represent Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics and lead the Oilers back to the Stanley Cup Final to "finish the job".
Skinner's bold pronouncements come ahead of Oilers training camp, which is set to fully open on September 17th. Preseason action will commence shortly after, with the Oilers hosting the Calgary Flames on September 21st. Prior to the main camp, Oilers rookies will face off against their Calgary counterparts in a home-and-home series on September 12th and 14th.
The 25-year-old netminder believes his experience, including multiple full seasons as the Oilers' starter and a deep playoff run, has prepared him to elevate his game. "Last year was another 82 games and four rounds, but we just want to finish the job," he said. Skinner emphasized the importance of slowing the game down and knowing "how to win games, how to bounce back after tough situations".
To prepare for the upcoming season, Skinner focused on enhancing his strength and consistency during the offseason, particularly in his core and lower body. He noted that fatigue can lead to a "floppy" posture in net, and maintaining strength will help him stay fresh for a full 60 minutes.
Skinner is also working with a new goalie coach, Pete Aubry, who joined the Oilers' staff this offseason. The pair have already begun reviewing game footage and discussing potential adjustments. Despite the changes, Skinner's philosophy remains simple: "The goal is still to just get in the way of pucks".
While some fans have praised Skinner's confidence and high aspirations, others have urged a more tempered approach. Some fans online reacted negatively and sarcastically to Skinner's Team Canada comments. One fan wrote, "Just give us a .900 save percentage and stop the softies," while another stated, "Nothing wrong with aiming high, but let's be realistic".
Skinner's future with the Oilers is somewhat uncertain, as he is entering the final year of his contract, mirroring the situation of Connor McDavid. While McDavid is widely expected to sign a contract extension with Edmonton, Skinner's future is less clear. Some reports suggest the Oilers may explore other goaltending options. Despite the uncertainty, Skinner has expressed a strong desire to remain with McDavid and the Oilers.
General Manager Doug Armstrong has said that the door is not closed on Skinner's chances of playing in the 2026 Winter Olympics despite Skinner not being invited to Team Canada's National Teams Orientation Camp. Armstrong emphasized that it is still an "open competition" for the goaltending positions.
The Oilers are aiming to overcome the final barrier and win their first Stanley Cup in the McDavid era. Training camp will provide an opportunity for prospects like Matthew Savoie and Ike Howard to compete for roster spots. The Oilers have added Andrew Mangiapane, who signed a two-year contract. With key players returning and new additions to the roster, the Oilers are gearing up for a season with high expectations.
