Oilers Face Goaltending Concern if Stuart Skinner Trade Buzz is True

Rumors linking Stuart Skinner to a potential trade should prompt questions about Edmonton’s plans if Skinner goes. While it’s fair to argue that his up-and-down play has created concerns about the need for an upgrade, Skinner believes he’s finding his game and feeling good about his play. That’s more than can be said for Edmonton’s other options.

And, if the Oilers don’t grab a goaltender in exchange if and when they move Skinner, what are they filling that hole with?

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The Oilers’ goaltending concern is not yet a problem that needs immediate fixing. Skinner has been solid this season—posting a .900 save percentage and improving against high-danger chances. There’s time to see if he can up those numbers even further. Still, not everyone is sold that he’s a true, elite starter capable of carrying a Cup-contending team beyond just getting to the Stanley Cup Final.

Unfortunately, the Oilers don’t have options to replace him. As good as Calvin Pickard is as a backup, he has struggled a bit this season. He is 2-1-1 in four games played, with a 0.846 save percentage and 3.5 goals against average. Meanwhile, AHL goalie Connor Ingram (whom the Oilers picked up in a trade this season) is far from ready.

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Ingram’s 4.05 GAA and .848 save percentage in Bakersfield prove he needs more time. He may eventually get there, but he’s not there yet. As Mark Spector of Sportsnet writes, “The bad news: Ingram’s game is miles away from helping the parent club that took a chance on him, acquiring Ingram from Utah.”

Edmonton Has No Clear Upgrade Option for Skinner

TSN’s Ryan Rishaug recently stated, “Here’s the situation as I see it: If a deal comes up that allows Stan Bowman to make a trade tomorrow, that he knows in his gut is going to be an upgrade in net and it involves moving from Stuart Skinner, it’s done, it’s done, no question.” That sounds good, but is that deal out there?

Not even Rishaug thinks so. He added, “I don’t think that deal is going to happen, I don’t think there’s a deal to be had. I don’t think there would be a second’s hesitation to do the deal if he knew he could improve that position tomorrow. Why would he hesitate?”

All of this leaves GM Stan Bowman in a precarious spot: trading Skinner could create an immediate gap in net with no way to fill it.

Fans can call for the Oilers to target names like Elvis Merzlikins, Ilya Sorokin, or Juuse Saros all they want. The reality is, those goalies either aren’t being moved, the Oilers can’t afford them, or the trade is ask is too high. Many are trade-protected and have to be in on the deal.

The truth is, Edmonton is heading into November with the goaltending as is. All they can do is hope it’s good enough.

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