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.

The Florida Panthers have enhanced their roster by acquiring goaltender Daniil Tarasov from the Columbus Blue Jackets, a strategic move intended to bolster their goaltending depth. In exchange, the Panthers sent a fifth-round draft pick to Columbus. At 26, Tarasov represents a younger alternative to Sergei Bobrovsky, who has been instrumental in the Panthers' back-to-back Stanley Cup victories.

Coming from the same Siberian town as Bobrovsky, Tarasov's familial ties to the veteran add an intriguing narrative to his transfer. Meanwhile, the Blue Jackets acknowledged Tarasov's contributions during his four years with the team, expressing gratitude for his dedication. As the Panthers look ahead, they face decisions regarding key players such as playoff MVP Sam Bennett and defenseman Aaron Ekblad as they navigate re-signing and further roster adjustments.

The Stanley Cup victory parade for the Florida Panthers on June 22, 2025, drew an unprecedented crowd to Fort Lauderdale Beach, surpassing last year's attendance significantly. Mayor Dean Trantalis described the atmosphere as filled with pride and excitement, solidifying Fort Lauderdale's identity as a 'hockey town.' Fans lined the streets, showing their support for players like Brad Marchand and Sergei Bobrovsky, who engaged with the crowd, further enhancing the celebration's energy.

Despite the festive spirit, the heat proved challenging, leading to over 100 emergency calls for heat-related issues. Overall, the event marked a momentous occasion for the Panthers and their supporters, encapsulating their championship journey and the community's support for the team.

The Florida Panthers celebrated their back-to-back Stanley Cup victories with a vibrant parade in Fort Lauderdale, drawing a crowd of around 400,000. Unlike last year's rain-soaked event, this time sunshine illuminated the festivities. Captain Aleksander Barkov expressed gratitude to the fans, while coach Paul Maurice dubbed the event 'the summer of love.' Newcomer Brad Marchand was warmly welcomed, hinting at his desire to stay with the team. Matthew Tkachuk ignited cheers by channeling Conor McGregor, declaring himself a 'double champ.' Goalie Sergei Bobrovsky and Conn Smythe winner Sam Bennett also shared their hopes for another triumphant season.