Oilers Don’t Agree With The Media’s Skinner Trade Theory

NHL insider Elliotte Friedman has flipped his position on an earlier trade theory that the Edmonton Oilers might consider moving goaltender Stuart Skinner to make a change. Once believing that maybe a fresh start was best for everyone, on the latest episode of the 32 Thoughts podcast, Friedman said the team is not ready to move on, and certainly not for a lateral move.

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Friedman reported that he wondered if a change was coming because of the pressure Skinner might be feeling, but that theory was pushed back on, and the idea that it’s “time to move on” is not in the cards for the Oilers. Friedman noted they flat-out disagree with that hypothesis. The organization hasn’t operated like a team desperate to dump its starter. If anything, they’ve doubled down on the belief that Skinner is still part of the solution.

Edmonton Isn’t Panicking

Despite the rough patch and struggles in goal for Edmonton, Friedman said the Oilers remain steady with their plan. They aren’t rushing into decisions, and they certainly aren’t interested in a knee-jerk reaction that swaps Skinner for another goalie with the same question marks.

“Even with everything that happened last week,” Friedman explained, “they are not going to trade Skinner for a guy who has the same questions as Skinner.” Edmonton knows their asset pool is limited, and a lateral move doesn’t make them any better. That stance hasn’t wavered.

Friedman did acknowledge that he’s heard two opposing viewpoints from around the NHL.

Some people believe Edmonton might wait until the end of the season before making any major goaltending decisions. Meanwhile, others think the Oilers will make a move if the right one presents itself. Those teams told Friedman they expect the Oilers to continue looking for help and to strike if a real upgrade becomes available. In their eyes, Edmonton isn’t punting on the year — they’re just refusing to take a sideways step.

Cap Realities Keep Skinner In Place

A big part of Edmonton’s position comes down to finances. Skinner’s $2.6 million cap hit is noticeably lighter than what many potential replacements would bring. Taking on salary complicates their roster, forces other tough choices, and likely increases the trade cost.

This is why, despite the tension, Skinner remains the most cost-effective option unless a clear improvement emerges.

Another key detail: Skinner hasn’t requested a trade. Friedman went out of his way to note that the goalie has handled the pressure with genuine professionalism — even showing up for an autograph signing when most players in his situation would prefer to avoid the public eye.

Don’t Expect Oilers to Go After Brossoit

Laurent Brossoit’s name has been tied to the Oilers (mostly by Friedman), but Friedman said some teams doubt Edmonton will go in that direction. Friedman was told that the Oilers have a fear of it taking too long for Brossoit to get up to speed after a long-term injury, and made the comparison to John Klingberg. Klingberg was a player who needed months to get back up to speed after returning from injury. Edmonton simply may not have that kind of runway this season.

Brossoit’s $3.3 million cap hit also works against the idea, especially when compared to Skinner’s cheaper number.

The Oilers aren’t ignoring the situation, but they refuse to follow the media’s preferred storyline. They’re sticking with their plan. They’re sticking with Stuart Skinner. And unless an unmistakable upgrade hits the market, Edmonton isn’t budging.

Next: Insider Squashes Trade Request Rumor and Report of Oilers Lateral Move