Elliotte Friedman casts doubt on Oilers’ decision to stick with 'budget-friendly' Stuart Skinner

The Edmonton Oilers’ goaltending situation remains a major talking point this season. Their both goalies, go to starter Stuart Skinner and backup Calvin Pickard have struggled this season. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman added a new perspective in his latest 32 Thoughts column.

Friedman wrote that the team’s desire to make Stuart Skinner work as their starter is tied closely to his cap-friendly contract. Skinner, who is signed on a 3-year, $7,8 million contract, earns an annual $2.6 million cap hit. In a tight salary structure, the Oilers have been hesitant to move on without a sure upgrade.

"One of the reasons the Oilers wanted it to work so badly is Skinner’s budget-friendly $2.6M AAV in a tight cap situation," Friedman wrote. "They felt very strongly that they had to know they were getting a guaranteed upgrade to give up on that. "

Friedman questioned whether that approach is still helping the team. He suggested the Oilers must now ask if staying the course is costing them wins.

"Now, you have to ask yourself: are you losing by not trying to come out even?" Friedman said. "Is there a situation where you feel someone will be rejuvenated in Edmonton, like Skinner might be elsewhere? The other question you have to ask: will a change lift our team? Is this weighing on them, too?"

Stuart Skinner is signed for this season, but he will become an unrestricted free agent afterward. If the Oilers extend him, they will have to increase his annual average value on his next contract, so that should also be considered.

The Oilers have struggled to find consistency, and the pressure around the position has grown. Trade rumors continue to link the club to options such as Jordan Binnington and Tristan Jarry. For now, management has stayed patient, but Friedman’s comments reflect growing doubt.

Stuart Skinner's concerning stats as Oilers' main goalie

Stuart Skinner's season has been inconsistent with an 8-7-3 record, a 3.18 goals-against average, and a .878 save percentage. He has been solid in wins but has struggled heavily in losses. Calvin Pickard serves as the backup, while Connor Ingram adds depth in the AHL.

Meanwhile, the Oilers sit at 10-10-5, and they have witnessed a sharp fall despite making it to two straight Stanley Cup finals. They score enough, but their defensive issues remain a major problem. They allow 3.72 goals per game, one of the highest rates in the league.

Edmonton hopes adjustments can stabilize the position, but trade options remain on the table if things do not improve.