The Edmonton Oilers' goaltending situation has been one of the biggest question marks this season. Despite boasting a high-powered offense led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, the team has struggled to get consistent performances between the pipes. As the trade deadline approaches, many expected new general manager Stan Bowman to explore goaltending upgrades, but so far, all indications suggest he is standing pat. Given the Oilers' aspirations of making another deep playoff run, this decision raises some concerns.
Oilers' Goaltending by the Numbers
The tandem of Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard has produced mixed results. Skinner, who was expected to be the Oilers' long-term solution in net, has posted a subpar save percentage (.898) and a Goals Saved Above Average (GSAA) of -3.2, meaning he has allowed more goals than an average NHL goaltender would given the same workload. Pickard, who was initially seen as a depth option, has posted similar numbers, with a .896 save percentage and a GSAA of -3.1. While both goalies have had stretches of strong play, their overall inconsistency has been a major issue.
When compared to the rest of the league, the Oilers' goaltending ranks near the bottom. Elite netminders like Connor Hellebuyck (.925 SV%, 28.0 GSAA) and Igor Shesterkin (.920 SV%, 22.4 GSAA) are making a massive difference for their respective teams. Even mid-tier goalies like Joey Daccord (.917 SV%) and Filip Gustavsson (.915 SV%) have outperformed Edmonton’s goaltending duo. The Oilers’ team save percentage (.897) places them in the bottom third of the league, a concerning statistic for a team with Stanley Cup aspirations.
Why No Goaltending Upgrade?
With the Oilers struggling to get key saves, many expected Stan Bowman to address the issue by exploring trade options. However, reports indicate that Bowman is not actively pursuing a goaltending upgrade. This decision may stem from a few key factors:
- Cap Space Limitations – The Oilers are pressed up against the salary cap, making it difficult to acquire a high-end goaltender without sending out significant salary in return.
- Lack of Available Options – The goalie trade market is often thin, and there may not be an obvious upgrade that fits within the Oilers’ cap structure.
- Belief in Skinner – Bowman and the Oilers' coaching staff may feel that Skinner can rebound and find the form he showed during last season’s playoff run.
- The Cost of a Trade – Acquiring a proven goaltender, such as Karel Vejmelka or John Gibson, would likely require high draft picks and top prospects, assets the Oilers may not be willing to part with.
Can the Oilers Win Without an Upgrade?
The Oilers have one of the best offensive cores in the NHL, but history shows that strong goaltending is essential in the playoffs. While teams can win without an elite netminder, they still need reliable, above-average goaltending. Right now, Edmonton's duo hasn’t provided that on a consistent basis.
If Skinner and Pickard can elevate their game down the stretch, the Oilers may be able to overcome their goaltending issues, as they showed last year getting only one win away from winning the Stanley Cup. However, if they continue to struggle, Bowman’s decision to stand pat could come back to haunt the team. Either way, the Oilers are taking a significant risk by not addressing one of their most glaring weaknesses.
Do you think the Oilers should make a move for a goaltender, or should they stick with Skinner and Pickard?