The Edmonton Oilers are once again storming into the playoffs with their high-powered offence, solid defence… and, well, just okay goaltending. But if fans were hoping for a blockbuster goalie trade, broadcaster Louie DeBrusk just threw a bucket of cold water on that idea.
For days, rumors have swirled about the Oilers making a push for Anaheim Ducks goaltender John Gibson. However, the reported price? Sending away Stuart Skinner. And that, according to DeBrusk, is a no-go for the team.
Speaking on the potential trade during an appearance on ON Everyday, DeBrusk made it clear: the Oilers aren’t looking to shake things up between the pipes mid-season, at least not at the cost of Skinner.
“I think it could add a little bit of conflict in there,” DeBrusk said. “If it doesn’t go well, then you’ve shown your number one guy – who’s on a very, very friendly deal – that we don’t believe in him. That could mess with team chemistry.”
"You do that mid-season, I don't know how that's going to work with the team. So for me, I say no." – @LouDeBrusk
— Oilersnation.com, Oily Since ‘07 (@OilersNation) February 12, 2025
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The Oilers don’t want to send the message that they don’t trust Skinner, even if he’s had his struggles.
The Stuart Skinner dilemma
DeBrusk even gave Skinner some credit for his ability to “shut the door” after giving up early goals. But let’s be real—if your goalie is constantly having to recover from rough starts, that’s not exactly a great sign.
Head coach Kris Knoblauch pulling Skinner against the Avalanche after some weak goals? That was the first time all season he’s made that call, even though there have been plenty of shaky performances.
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The truth is, Skinner’s numbers aren’t cutting it against elite teams. The Oilers’ offence and defense are humming at a top-10 level, but goaltending? Barely cracking the top 20.
Updated for those keeping track at home…@Bob_Stauffer pic.twitter.com/ow8QxsIGJ0
— stony (@StonyOil) February 8, 2025
DeBrusk is clearly in Skinner’s corner, and the Oilers seem hesitant to make a big move in net. But with the playoffs looming, can they afford to stick with “good enough” goaltending? Or will their championship hopes once again be undone by the crease?
One thing’s for sure—if the Oilers want to make a real push for the Cup, they might need to rethink their strategy. Because come playoff time, “league average” won’t cut it.