Oilers Goalies from 2025-26 Linked to Senators for Next Season

The offseason goalie market is beginning to take shape, and according to Bruce Garrioch, the Ottawa Senators are expected to be active in searching for a dependable backup behind Linus Ullmark. With Ullmark carrying a heavy workload and the schedule expanding to 84 games next season, Ottawa views the position as a clear priority heading into 2026-27.

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Ullmark, who is locked in at $8.25 million annually through 2028-29 with the Senators, played 49 games this past season despite a 35-day leave for mental health reasons. That workload reinforced the need for a stable partner capable of handling roughly 30–35 starts. Ottawa used multiple goalies throughout the year before stabilizing briefly with James Reimer, but his future remains uncertain as he weighs retirement. That leaves general manager Steve Staios once again scanning the market for a long-term safety net.

Two goalies from the Oilers in 2025-26 are being linked to the Senators’ search.

Stuart Skinner Wants To Be A Starter Or 1B

One of the more recognizable names linked to Ottawa is Stuart Skinner of the Pittsburgh Penguins, a goaltender who also spent time previously with the Edmonton Oilers in 2025-26. Skinner is expected to reach unrestricted free agency on July 1, and Ottawa is believed to be among the teams considering him as a potential option.

However, the fit comes with complications. Skinner’s season was inconsistent, and while his underlying career numbers remain respectable, his recent performance made sure any questions about consistency and reliability didn’t go away. He posted a 12-9-5 record this year with a .885 save percentage, and league insiders suggest he could command around $4 million annually on a new deal.

Skinner might want to be a starter, but his numbers would not force the issue. He is more likely a No. 1B in a tandem role behind Ullmark. But, adding Skinner at that price point would push the Senators’ total goaltending investment into the $12 million range, a number the organization may hesitate to reach for a backup role.

Another Swing on Connor Ingram?

A more realistic target may be Connor Ingram, who also played in Edmonton and is currently one of their pending UFAs. He is projected to be a more cost-effective option in free agency, but the Oilers are not likely to pay big money for him. Ingram posted a 16-10-3 record last season with a .899 save percentage and a 2.60 goals-against average, showing steadier results in a complementary role.

Unlike Skinner, Ingram is not expected to spark a bidding war, but the Oilers aren’t necessarily sold he’s the right fit. If they can upgrade at the position, they will. His current cap hit of $1.95 million reflects the type of value deal the Senators are actively searching for, especially given their need for depth rather than a headline starter. Bruce Garrioch writes, “Ingram was able to get his career back on track with the Oilers and there won’t be the same bidding war that would exist with a guy like Skinner. You might even be able to get him on a one-year deal.”

The Senators are also aware that the Oilers could attempt to retain him before free agency opens, but if he reaches the market, Ottawa is expected to be firmly in the mix.

Ottawa’s Goalie Market Strategy Takes Shape

Beyond the Edmonton-linked options, Ottawa is still evaluating its options. Leevi Merilainen remains in the system after time in Belleville, but the Senators appear hesitant to rely solely on internal development for such an important role.

Garrioch also mentions Frederik Andersen, Jesper Wallstedt, and Mads Sogaard. Kevin Weekes also recently noted that Devon Levi of the Buffalo Sabres is a player the Sens would be interested in talking to.

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