Will the Edmonton Oilers Trade Stuart Skinner to Upgrade Goaltending?
The Edmonton Oilers seem increasingly frustrated with their goaltending troubles and are open to trading Stuart Skinner if it means improving their position in net. Their struggles have persisted into the current season, prompting serious discussions about making a significant change.
Current Goaltending Situation
Edmonton's start to the season has been slow, reigniting concerns over the performance of their goaltending duo, Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard. Skinner has struggled with consistency, while Pickard's statistics rank among the worst in the league this season. This is despite the addition of new goalie coach Peter Aubry during the offseason.
While goaltending is not the only problem the Oilers face, it remains a critical issue. After 14 games, only four saw an Oilers goalie achieving a save percentage above .900, highlighting the need for improvement.
Potential Trade Talks
Could trading Skinner be the key to upgrading their goalie position? TSN’s Ryan Rishaug expressed on 880 CHED that the team would not hesitate to trade Skinner if it meant gaining a better netminder.
"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 Edmonton Oilers face ongoing goaltending challenges and could consider trading Stuart Skinner to secure a stronger presence in goal, although a suitable trade seems unlikely at this time.
Author’s summary: The Oilers are struggling with goaltending consistency and may trade Skinner to improve the position, but no clear trade options appear available yet.