As the Edmonton Oilers prepare for the 2025–26 NHL season, all eyes are on Connor McDavid and the team’s goaltending situation. While the superstar forward’s presence guarantees attention, another spotlight now falls on Stuart Skinner, whose future with the franchise is reportedly dependent on his performance in the upcoming campaign. With Edmonton aiming for a deep playoff run, the Oilers are taking a measured approach in net while evaluating Skinner’s ability to solidify the No. 1 role.

According to insiders, the organization is focusing on depth rather than rushing into a replacement. The team is exploring options for a third-string goaltender or a potential backup, but plans suggest that Skinner will open the season as the starter. Olivier Rodrigue of The Oilers Fanatic notes the team’s approach shows patience and confidence in the current tandem, delaying any major overhaul for now.

“It just does not look like that (replacing Stuart Skinner) is what the Edmonton Oilers are trying to do. At least at the present time, a veteran goaltender is something we could see come to fruition for the Edmonton Oilers later in the season,” Rodrigue said.

Why are the Oilers committing to Skinner for now?

Entering the final year of his three-year, $7.8 million contract, Skinner, 26, will become an unrestricted free agent in July 2026. After two inconsistent campaigns, this season is pivotal. Edmonton is betting on coaching adjustments and depth additions rather than an immediate replacement to address goaltending issues.

Stuart Skinner #74 of the Edmonton Oilers reacts after his team was defeated by the Florida Panthers in Game Six of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final at Amerant Bank Arena on June 17, 2025 in Sunrise, Florida. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

Stuart Skinner #74 of the Edmonton Oilers reacts after his team was defeated by the Florida Panthers in Game Six of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final at Amerant Bank Arena on June 17, 2025 in Sunrise, Florida. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

Rodrigue explained, “Based on the kind of season that Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard had, we know the Edmonton Oilers are looking for either a third-string goaltender or possibly a new backup for Stuart Skinner. Both Skinner and Pickard, if they stick around, are going to be working with new Edmonton Oilers goaltending coach Peter Aubrey.”

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NHL News: Connor McDavid’s Oilers may already know how much it could cost to bring back Stuart Skinner

How is Stuart Skinner preparing for his crucial season?

Skinner has already started offseason preparations in Kelowna, B.C., following a 2024–25 campaign where he posted a .896 save percentage over 51 games and lost the starting role in the playoffs. He has also changed agents, hiring Ray Petkau, who specializes in representing goaltenders—a move that signals the importance of this upcoming season.

What could Skinner’s next contract look like?

Industry projections suggest a potential mid-length deal worth over $6 million annually if Skinner performs at a consistent No. 1 level. Evolving Hockey’s contract model estimates a five-year extension at $6.817 million per season, with other scenarios ranging from a two-year deal at $5.16 million to an eight-year deal at $6.64 million. The Oilers’ long-term commitment will hinge entirely on Skinner’s results this season.

SurveyCan Stuart Skinner establish himself as the Oilers’ long-term No. 1 goalie?

Can Stuart Skinner establish himself as the Oilers’ long-term No. 1 goalie?

With Connor McDavid leading the charge, Skinner’s performance between the pipes could determine not only his career trajectory but also how the Oilers manage one of the league’s most dynamic rosters. The organization appears ready to give him one more opportunity to prove he can be their franchise goaltender, but patience will only last if performance improves.