What's Happening?
The Edmonton Oilers are evaluating the future of their goalie, Stuart Skinner, following a decline in his performance during the 2024-25 NHL season. Skinner, who played a pivotal role in the Oilers reaching Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals in the 2023-24 season, saw his goals-against average rise to 3.00 and his save percentage fall to .889 in the subsequent season's playoffs. This drop in performance contributed to the Oilers' inability to secure the Stanley Cup, as they were defeated by the Florida Panthers in six games. Skinner is currently in the final year of his three-year contract, valued at $7.8 million. Oilers Nation analyst Zach Laing has predicted a potential five-year contract extension for Skinner, with a cap hit of $6.817 million per season, contingent on his ability to prove himself as a reliable No. 1 goalie.
AD
Why It's Important?
The decision regarding Stuart Skinner's contract is crucial for the Edmonton Oilers as they aim to maintain their competitive edge in the NHL. Skinner's performance will significantly impact the team's strategy and future prospects, especially with captain Connor McDavid also nearing the end of his contract. The Oilers' management must weigh Skinner's potential long-term contributions against his recent performance decline. A successful extension could stabilize the team's goalie position, while failure to secure a reliable goalie might necessitate exploring other options. This decision will influence the Oilers' ability to contend for the Stanley Cup in upcoming seasons.
What's Next?
The Oilers will closely monitor Stuart Skinner's performance in the 2025-26 season to determine his suitability for a long-term contract extension. The team's management, led by coach Kris Knoblauch, will assess Skinner's ability to handle high-pressure situations and deliver consistent results. If Skinner demonstrates improvement and reliability, the Oilers may proceed with the proposed contract extension. Conversely, if his performance continues to falter, the team might seek alternative options to strengthen their goalie lineup. This decision will be pivotal in shaping the Oilers' future and their quest for the Stanley Cup.
