Stuart Skinner will get his first start of the season for the Edmonton Oilers on Tuesday night as the team looks for a quick start against the Buffalo Sabres. Coming off a 4-3 loss to the Calgary Flames where Skinner replaced starter Jack Campbell during the first period (and four goals allowed by Campbell), Skinner will be looked upon to hold the fort and let the Oilers get off to an early lead.
Head coach Jay Woodcroft says Skinner has worked his way up to this spot and “hit each developmental step along the way.” He added that Skinner has been in the East Coast Hockey League and the AHL and now he’s ready to take on a role with the Oilers. “He’s gotten better and better and he’s a mature young man that goes about his business the right way and you trust in his process.” Defenseman Darnell Nurse said of Skinner’s potential: “It’s been fun to watch him grow. He’s a heck of a goalie and we are lucky to have him.”
Skinner has been waiting for the chance to prove he’s capable of being an NHL regular. Even though the Oilers couldn’t complete the comeback, he looked great in his appearance against the Flames and shut the door to give Edmonton a chance. He saved all 31 shots he faced. Flames’ coach Darryl Sutter said he looked great. Skinner said of his starting Tuesday, “I’m just grateful that I get to play another game in the NHL. I’m really excited for it.”
There’s going to be a large group of supporters in the crowd for his start. He’s got a ton of family coming to watch and said, “Some days I have to be a good salesman (laughs). It is great having a big family, but I’m still looking for a couple of tickets for tonight.” He’s the youngest of nine brothers and sisters and all of them want to see him play.
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