The Edmonton Oilers have already finalized multiple extensions ahead of the 2025‑26 NHL season, securing key pieces like Leon Draisaitl and Jake Walman. At the same time, the potential extension of Connor McDavid is making headlines. However, one important player may not be in the franchise’s plans.
The Oilers’ front office has shown a commitment to protecting the core that led the team to back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals. With McDavid entering the final year of the long-term deal he signed in 2017, attention now turns to another contract that could impact the team’s defensive structure.
General manager Stan Bowman is evaluating depth across all positions, and goaltending is one of them. The role has sparked controversy in recent playoff games due to inconsistent performances. In this context, a key goaltender appears to have been overlooked by the Oilers when it comes to contract extension talks.
Which goalie could be on the way out of Edmonton?
The goalie left off the list of potential Oilers extensions is none other than Stuart Skinner. His name wasn’t included in a list made by NHL insider Bob Stauffer about likely deals before the end of the offseason, despite expectations that the team could lock in at least five agreements by the end of August.
Stuart Skinner #74 of the Edmonton Oilers looks on after being benched during the third period against the Florida Panthers in Game Three of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final at Amerant Bank Arena on June 09, 2025 in Sunrise, Florida.
During a recent episode of Oilers Now, Stauffer mentioned several names the organization may look to extend before training camp, including McDavid, Mattias Ekholm, Vasily Podkolzin, and even head coach Kris Knoblauch.
see also
NHL News: Oilers reportedly set to offer Connor McDavid a record-breaking deal, including timeline for proposal
Skinner’s contract situation
With a $2.6 million cap hit this season, Skinner remains a cost-effective option. Like McDavid and Ekholm, his contract expires at the end of the upcoming season. However, his recent performance, posting a save percentage below .900 during 2024‑25, has raised concerns, and there’s growing speculation that the team may move on from him.
