Will the Edmonton Oilers Trade Stuart Skinner to Upgrade Goaltending?
The Edmonton Oilers continue to struggle with their goaltending this season, raising questions about possible changes. The team’s duo of Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard has failed to deliver consistent performances, contributing to a slow start in Alberta’s capital.
Goaltending Challenges Persist
Skinner has had difficulty maintaining steady play, while Pickard ranks among the league’s worst performers in the early month of games. Despite bringing in new goalie coach Peter Aubry during the off-season, the situation hasn't improved significantly.
So far this season, the Oilers have played 14 games, but only in four of those did their goaltenders manage a save percentage above .900. While goaltending isn’t their only problem, it remains a key concern.
Possible Trade Discussions
Trading Stuart Skinner might be a potential solution to improve the netminding position. Ryan Rishaug of TSN shared his thoughts on 880 CHED, suggesting the team wouldn’t hesitate to trade Skinner if it meant acquiring an upgrade.
“If a deal comes up that allows Stan Bowman to make a trade tomorrow that he knows in his gut is an upgrade in net and it involves moving on from Stuart Skinner, it’s done.
“I don’t think that deal is gonna happen, I don’t think that deal is there to be had.”
Summary
The Oilers face ongoing goaltending struggles and may consider trading Stuart Skinner if a clear upgrade becomes available, though such a deal seems unlikely at this moment.
Author’s summary: The Edmonton Oilers' inconsistent goaltending has prompted trade speculation around Stuart Skinner, but available upgrades appear limited for now.