3 reasons why Stuart Skinner is a prime candidate to win the Vezina Trophy

Stuart Skinner has some epic numbers, even if he hasn’t always been consistent. But that doesn’t mean he’s not a Vezina Trophy candidate.

Mar 9, 2024; Buffalo, New York, USA;  Edmonton Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner (74) looks for the
Mar 9, 2024; Buffalo, New York, USA; Edmonton Oilers goaltender Stuart Skinner (74) looks for the | Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
4 of 4

Skinner can easily improve his overall numbers down the stretch

We have spent a lot of time going over clusters of Stuart Skinner’s numbers this season, so with just under a month left in the season, what do his overall stats look like? Unfortunately for Skinner, his struggles will show that his 2023-24 numbers 80-plus percent of the way through the year aren’t great, but they also aren’t as bad as you may believe. 

He had enough good runs, epic throughout the winning streak and even recently, to save his stat line, which is what you can expect many general managers to check out. So far, the 30 wins this season will take Skinner a long way, as will his 2.57 GAA, both of which should get better if he keeps playing the way he has. 

Skinner also has a 0.908 save percentage, and that should also increase, assuming he stays hot over his last eight or so starts of the season. At this point, the overall numbers will hurt, but they’re also hovering above average, and that’s outstanding news for a young goaltender who could be getting hot once again. Stuart Skinner only needs to keep playing with consistency, and he will remain a prime candidate for the Vezina. 

(Statistics provided by Hockey-Reference and QuantHockey)

Schedule