Edmonton Oilers Eye Juuse Saros Amid Goaltending Struggles

EDMONTON, Alberta — The Edmonton Oilers are struggling early in the NHL season, holding a record of 6-5-4 and currently sitting fourth in the Pacific Division. The team has dropped three of their last five games, drawing attention to their goaltending issues, particularly concerning Stuart Skinner.

Skinner has faced criticism for his inconsistent performance, posting a 2.54 goals-against average (GAA) and a .899 save percentage (SV%) through ten starts. As the Oilers prepare to host the Colorado Avalanche on Saturday, they look to turn their season around.

With ongoing concerns about goaltending, NHL insider Jeff Marek suggested that All-Star Juuse Saros of the Nashville Predators could be a potential solution. Currently in the first year of an eight-year, $61.92 million contract, Saros has been linked to trade discussions.

The Nashville Predators have been struggling this season too, with a record of 5-7-4, placing them near the bottom of the Central Division. Marek indicated that the Oilers might pursue Saros as the trade deadline approaches, particularly if Nashville’s struggles continue.

Marek advised the Oilers to focus on immediate needs and not worry about Saros’s long-term contract. “You just need to think about the next game and the next round of playoffs,” he explained, highlighting the importance of short-term success for the Oilers.

However, there is a significant challenge in pursuing Saros. He holds a full no-movement clause in his contract, which means he has control over any potential trade, complicating the situation for the Predators.

As the Oilers navigate their early-season struggles, the focus will be on whether they can enhance their goaltending options, particularly with the trade deadline approaching.