The Edmonton Oilers are once again staring at a Stanley Cup Finals defeat in the hands of the Florida Panthers. While there are numerous factors behind their inability to reach the pinnacle this season, one issue stands out as urgent and unavoidable: goaltending. If the Oilers truly want to break through and lift the Stanley Cup, addressing this weakness must be their top priority in the offseason.
Goaltending has long been an Achilles heel for Edmonton, especially during the Connor McDavid era. To conquer the ultimate challenge in the NHL, Oilers management must be willing to make bold moves to acquire a true number-one netminder. Here are several goalie options the Oilers can explore to finally solidify a position that has repeatedly held them back from hoisting the Stanley Cup.
Jeremy Swayman
It’s rare for a team to reach the Stanley Cup Final in back-to-back seasons — and even rarer to lose both times. Unfortunately for the Edmonton Oilers, that’s the harsh reality they’re facing. As the sting of another missed opportunity settles in, the climb back to contention begins immediately this offseason.
One of the most glaring weaknesses that plagued the Oilers throughout the season and playoffs was goaltending. Both Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard posted save percentages below league average, and neither was able to provide the consistency needed to backstop a championship run.
One intriguing option for Edmonton is pursuing Boston Bruins goaltender Jeremy Swayman, who signed an eight-year, $66 million extension last offseason. Rumors swirled at this year’s trade deadline about Edmonton exploring a deal for Swayman, but talks ultimately fizzled.
However, with the Bruins reportedly open to moving him before his no-movement clause kicks in this July, there may still be a window for the Oilers to strike. If Edmonton is serious about fixing their goaltending problem once and for all, this could be the deal that changes their fortunes.
John Gibson
These rumors simply refuse to go away. At this year’s trade deadline, reports surfaced that Anaheim Ducks goaltender John Gibson would be willing to waive his no-movement clause for a trade to the Edmonton Oilers.
With the Oilers in desperate need of a reliable presence in net, the potential fit made sense — Gibson is a proven starter with years of experience, and a fresh start on a contending team could have reignited his career. Yet, despite the buzz, nothing materialized, leaving fans wondering whether Edmonton seriously explored the opportunity.
The lack of specifics around the situation has only fueled speculation. Were the Oilers hesitant to take on Gibson’s contract? Was Anaheim asking for too much in return? Or did Edmonton simply not believe he was the answer to their goaltending struggles?
Whatever the reason, the door hasn’t fully closed, and with the Oilers once again facing questions in net after another failed Cup run, Gibson’s name could resurface as a viable target this offseason.
Ilya Sorokin
Another team the Edmonton Oilers could target in their search for a goaltending upgrade is the New York Islanders. The Isles find themselves stuck in no man's land — not quite contenders, yet not fully committed to a rebuild.
If New York decides it’s time to reset and chart a new course for the future, the Oilers could seize the moment. Ilya Sorokin, one of the NHL’s elite netminders, is locked up until 2033 with an annual cap hit of $8.25 million. While that’s a hefty price, it could be a worthwhile investment for a team like Edmonton that’s desperate to stabilize its crease.
Sorokin would instantly give the Oilers a game-changing presence in net — something they’ve sorely lacked during their playoff runs. His ability to steal games, stay composed under pressure, and handle high shot volumes makes him a perfect fit for a team with championship aspirations.
If the Islanders are willing to entertain offers, Edmonton’s front office must be aggressive. The goaltending position has repeatedly held the Oilers back, and a bold move for Sorokin could finally push them over the top.
Carter Hart
This won’t sit well with everyone, and understandably so — but if the legal proceedings surrounding Carter Hart are resolved in his favor, the former Flyers goaltender could once again become eligible to return to the NHL.
To be clear, this is not a statement of support regarding the serious allegations against him, but rather a look at the potential implications on the ice. When active, Hart was one of the more promising young netminders in the league, and players of his caliber rarely hit the open market, especially at a young age with upside still untapped.
That said, the legal matters are not expected to be settled until mid-July, and the Edmonton Oilers may not have the luxury to wait that long to address a glaring weakness in goal. However, if the timeline plays out and Hart is cleared to return — and if the Oilers have yet to make a significant move — it wouldn’t be surprising to see them at least explore the possibility.
With the goaltending position continuing to hamper their Stanley Cup ambitions, Edmonton could be tempted to take a calculated risk if the situation allows it.
If the Edmonton Oilers are serious about finally capturing the elusive Stanley Cup, they must leave no stone unturned — and that starts with fixing their long-standing goaltending issues. The Connor McDavid era has been filled with promise, talent, and heartache, but without a dependable presence between the pipes, the team will continue to fall short.
This offseason is a crucial opportunity for management to explore every possible avenue and make the bold moves necessary to give this team — and its superstar — the championship they’ve been chasing for far too long
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