Articles / Skinner fails first chance to show Oilers he can be trusted

Skinner fails first chance to show Oilers he can be trusted

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Sportsnet
Oct 9, 2025 2:31 AM

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Edmonton Oilers goalie Stuart Skinner had a difficult outing as he kicked off the season with high expectations, but struggled to earn the trust of his team. In the tight contest against the Vancouver Canucks, Skinner faced numerous shots, ultimately allowing five goals, which raised concerns about his performance under pressure.

The Oilers, coming off a strong previous season, relied on Skinner to step up as a dependable option in net. Despite a solid rookie season, this game highlighted his need for improvement to establish himself as a reliable goaltender for the team. Coach Jay Woodcroft expressed the team's disappointment but remains optimistic about Skinner's potential, emphasizing the importance of learning from such games.

As Skinner looks to bounce back, he is not only battling the pressures of being a starting goalie but also the expectation of fans and teammates alike. The Oilers will need him to find his form quickly if they hope to compete with the top teams in the league this season. Overall, this first outing serves as a reminder that the path to becoming a top-tier goalie is filled with challenges and learning opportunities.

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