Will the Edmonton Oilers Trade Stuart Skinner to Upgrade Goaltending?
The Edmonton Oilers seem increasingly frustrated with their goaltending challenges and may consider trading Stuart Skinner to improve that position. The team's struggles in net have persisted into the new season, fueling speculation about a potential major change.
Current Season Struggles
After 14 games this season, only four have seen an Oilers goalie post a save percentage above .900. This ongoing issue affects the Alberta-based team significantly, despite efforts like hiring new goalie coach Peter Aubry during the summer.
Performance of Goaltenders
- Stuart Skinner has had trouble maintaining consistent performance.
- Calvin Pickard’s stats rank among the worst in the league for the first month of play.
Possible Trade Considerations
TSN’s Ryan Rishaug commented on 880 CHED, suggesting the Oilers would not hesitate to trade Skinner if it meant upgrading their goaltending:
“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
Although a trade involving Skinner might improve the Oilers’ goaltending, such a deal appears unlikely at this time.
Author’s Conclusion
The Oilers face persistent goaltending struggles, and while trading Skinner could help, a suitable deal does not currently seem within reach.