The Edmonton Oilers faced a significant goaltending dilemma during their recent Stanley Cup Final run, raising questions about whether Calvin Pickard could be the key to pushing Stuart Skinner to achieve ultimate glory. Throughout the playoffs, the Oilers' goaltending situation has been a rollercoaster, with both Skinner and Pickard experiencing highs and lows.
Skinner, the Oilers' regular-season starter, has shown flashes of brilliance, including multiple shutouts. However, his performance has been inconsistent, leading to him being pulled in several games, including twice during the Stanley Cup Final. In the 2025 playoffs, through six starts, Skinner had a 2-4 record, with a 3.39 goals-against average and an .872 save percentage. Aside from shutouts, Skinner allowed at least four goals in each of his other four starts. Over 41 career playoff starts, Skinner is 21-19 with a 2.92 GAA and .891 save percentage. After allowing five goals on 23 shots, Skinner was pulled during Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final.
Pickard, a seasoned journeyman, stepped up when called upon, providing stability and a spark for the team. In Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final, Pickard replaced Skinner and made 22 saves on 23 shots in a 5-4 overtime victory. Pickard has played in seven of Edmonton's eight comeback wins during the 2025 playoffs. He led the NHL in goals for average (4.22) and goal differential per 60 minutes (1.53) this postseason. Among goalies who advanced past the first round, Pickard led the NHL in high-danger save percentage (.848). However, he also had an "ugly outing" in Game 5, stopping 14 of 18 shots in a 5-2 loss. Overall in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Pickard went 7-1 with a 2.85 goals-against average and .886 save percentage in 10 games.
The Oilers' coaching staff, led by Kris Knoblauch, faced a tough decision regarding which goalie to start. Knoblauch acknowledged that both goalies have shown they can play extremely well and win hockey games. Despite Pickard's Game 5 struggles, Knoblauch said that Pickard didn't have much of a chance on those goals because of breakaways and shots through screens. Ultimately, Skinner was given the nod for Game 6.
The Oilers' inconsistent goaltending has drawn criticism, even from hockey legend Wayne Gretzky. Gretzky questioned the team's goalie rotation, emphasizing the need for a solidified netminder. However, others, including Connor McDavid, defended Skinner and emphasized the team's collective responsibility. McDavid said he doesn't know how much to put on Skinner, but it's honorable for him to try to take the blame, while also stating that the team can be better.
Looking ahead, the Oilers may explore potential changes in their goaltending situation. General Manager Stan Bowman has identified goaltending as an area for improvement and the team may look to acquire a bona fide starter. However, the Oilers could also choose to run it back with Skinner and Pickard.
Several factors could influence the Oilers' decision, including Skinner's contract situation, Pickard's performance, and the availability of other goaltenders. The Oilers have signed goalie Matt Tomkins to a two-year, two-way contract. Ultimately, the Oilers need to find a way to solidify their goaltending if they hope to achieve their Stanley Cup aspirations.
