Oilers’ Skinner Faces Pressure After Poor Game 1 Performance

LOS ANGELES – Edmonton Oilers goalie Stuart Skinner is under scrutiny after a disappointing performance in Game 1 against the Los Angeles Kings on April 21, 2025. Skinner allowed six goals on 30 shots, leading to doubts about his starting position ahead of Game 2.

Coach Kris Knoblauch did not confirm that Skinner would start in the upcoming game, further fueling speculation. “I haven’t decided,” he said when asked about the goaltending situation. Skinner’s recent inconsistent play makes this uncertainty understandable.

Despite his shaky start to the playoffs, Skinner has had successful stretches in the past. He was a key player during a two-month period in the previous season and guided the Oilers to Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final last year.

On the other hand, Calvin Pickard has stepped up in Skinner’s absence due to a concussion earlier this season and ended the regular season with 22 wins and a .900 save percentage, highlighting the competition for the starting spot.

After his Game 1 outing, Skinner tried to keep a positive outlook. “No, I’m not feeling any pressure at all,” he said, emphasizing his belief in his ability. However, players like Connor McDavid noted the need for better defensive support to avoid leaving Skinner exposed to tough chances.

Knoblauch analyzed Skinner’s goals, expressing dissatisfaction over some, yet acknowledging that not all opportunities were his fault. “We made some big mistakes that led to goals against,” he said. Despite this, Skinner recognized his need for improvement. “Letting in the sixth goal, as a team, that was just obviously not the time to do it,” he said.

As the Oilers prepare for Game 2, Skinner’s performance will be closely watched. The team has faith in him, with McDavid stating, “We have lots of belief in him.” Yet, after allowing six goals in the playoff opener, another poor showing could lead Knoblauch to consider a change in goal.

Meanwhile, the Oilers are also dealing with injury concerns, as star winger Evander Kane is nearing a return to the lineup. Coach Knoblauch indicated that Kane could be back within the next three games, which would provide a much-needed boost to the team.

The upcoming Game 2 will be crucial not only for Skinner but for the Oilers as a whole. They need to make adjustments to ensure they start strong to avoid falling further behind in the series.