The Edmonton Oilers are coming off another deep playoff run, but doubts persist surrounding their goaltending corps. With Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard currently manning the crease, many around the league remain skeptical about the tandem’s ability to backstop a legitimate Stanley Cup bid.
Edmonton’s high-powered offense, led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, continues to strike fear into opponents. But with limited salary cap space and question marks in goal, the Oilers face a challenging path to further upgrade the roster. That hasn’t stopped speculation from heating up around a potential blockbuster deal.
According to veteran columnist Mark Spector on The Jason Gregor Show, the Oilers should pursue New York Islanders star goaltender Ilya Sorokin—a move that would signal a seismic shift in Edmonton’s approach between the pipes.
Could Ilya Sorokin be the Oilers’ missing piece?
Sorokin is coming off another solid campaign for the Islanders, appearing in 61 games with a 30-24-6 record, 2.71 GAA, .907 SV%, and four shutouts. At 29, he remains in his prime and is under contract through 2031, thanks to a $66 million, eight-year deal carrying an $8.5M AAV.
Ilya Sorokin #30 of the New York Islanders leaves the ice following the last home game against the Washington Capitals at UBS Arena on April 15, 2025 in Elmont, New York. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
Spector’s comments underline the gap in quality: “Hey, trade him for Ilya Sorokin. Now we’re talking, right? Bring in a guy who everybody in hockey would say to you, ‘This guy’s better than Skinner.’”
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By comparison, Skinner finished last season with a 2.81 GAA and .896 SV% over 51 games, showing flashes of upside but inconsistency under pressure—especially in the postseason, where he posted a 2.99 GAA and .889 SV% in 15 starts.
What would a Sorokin trade cost the Oilers?
While Sorokin would represent a clear upgrade, prying him out of Long Island would be no easy feat. His contract is substantial, and the Islanders have not signaled any intention of moving their franchise netminder. For Edmonton to make room, a major cap shuffle would be necessary—likely including Skinner and additional assets.
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Still, the idea sparks an important conversation. If Edmonton is serious about winning now, targeting a proven goaltender like Sorokin could be the bold swing required to finally get over the hump. For now, it remains speculation, but if early-season struggles resurface, this rumor could quickly resurface with more weight.
