Stuart Skinner’s extension debate is the marquee NHL storyline in Edmonton as the Oilers weigh a long-term marry-the-arc plan. Zach Laing’s five-year projection at a 6.817 million cap hit carries a mature edge: a high-ceiling bet on Skinner through his prime, tempered by a 22% chance the model assigns to hitting that exact outcome.

Skinner’s postseason numbers dipped to a 2.99 GAA and .889 SV% across 15 games in 2024-25, a contrast to the spring when he lifted Edmonton in back-to-back Cup Final runs. Florida’s Sergei Bobrovsky outdueled the Oilers’ tandem in the Final, while GM Stan Bowman defended his goaltenders and Kris Knoblauch rode Skinner in must-win Game 6. For fantasy, a long-term Skinner in Edmonton could stabilize a once-volatile position, but the playoff skid injects risk into any price tag. The piece also frames rival stoppers—Kuemper, Hill, and Oettinger—as benchmarks to contextualize Skinner’s ceiling and downside as the Oilers navigate this contract crossroads.

As free agency unfolds, the Edmonton Oilers are focusing on their goaltending situation following back-to-back Stanley Cup Final losses. Notable departures include Connor Brown and John Klingberg, but rumors suggest the Oilers are primed to secure a goalie soon, potentially via trade or signing an unrestricted free agent. They are reportedly aiming for immediate improvements to stabilize their position. Current netminders Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard have faced scrutiny after a less-than-stellar playoff performance, prompting the organization to consider a coaching change in that area.

Friedman indicated that while there was speculation about moving on from Skinner, the Oilers may now want to nurture his development with a fresh coaching approach. Skinner's contract remains a valued asset at $2.6 million, and the Oilers are keen on maximizing his potential. Meanwhile, the cap-strapped roster limits their options in free agency, suggesting any new acquisition will need to fit within their financial constraints.

The Edmonton Oilers are actively pursuing a new goaltender following their struggles during the Stanley Cup Final. Despite the thin goalie market, the team is considering options such as Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard, who have been evaluated for a potential return. GM Stan Bowman has indicated that while improvements are needed, acquiring a new goalie is not guaranteed at this point.

Past targets like John Gibson and current discussions surrounding Jake Allen and Alexandar Georgiev reflect the Oilers' attempts to find a solution. However, with injuries complicating trades and the salary cap considerations, the Oilers may lean towards continuity if better options do not present themselves. The situation remains fluid as they explore their options.

The Edmonton Oilers are on the brink of elimination in the Stanley Cup Finals against the Florida Panthers, but they are turning back to Stuart Skinner as their starting goalie for Game 6. After struggling in previous games, Skinner expressed his confidence and belief in his team. Coach Knoblauch praised Skinner's experience in high-pressure situations, noting his solid performances in elimination games last season. Skinner's return comes after backup Calvin Pickard's shaky outing in Game 5, where he allowed four goals. The Oilers are making several lineup changes, aiming to extend the series to a Game 7 back in Edmonton.

The Edmonton Oilers find themselves at a critical junction as they prepare for Game 6 against the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final. The big question looms: should they start Stuart Skinner or Calvin Pickard in goal? Head coach Kris Knoblauch has stated the decision is complex and requires input from various coaching staff and players.

Skinner has had a rollercoaster postseason, recording a 2.99 GAA and .891 SV%, yet has experienced inconsistency. Conversely, Pickard's solid performance has been overshadowed by a shaky Game 5. While both goalies have shown resilience, Knoblauch acknowledges that choosing the right starter is crucial for extending the series back to Edmonton for Game 7.