Oilers’ Skinner Seeks Redemption in Stanley Cup Final Rematch

EDMONTON, Canada — Edmonton Oilers goalie Stuart Skinner is determined to overcome last season’s Stanley Cup Final disappointment as his team prepares for a rematch against the Florida Panthers. The finals begin with Game 1 at Rogers Place on Wednesday at 8 p.m. ET. Edmonton aims to avenge a narrow 2-1 loss to Florida in Game 7 last year.

Skinner acknowledged he faced challenges processing the loss. “I thought I put it away quickly last year, but definitely internally there was something buried,” he shared during a media day. He admitted he initially stuffed his feelings down, an approach he later realized was detrimental to his mental preparedness.

This season, Skinner has recorded impressive stats, boasting a 6-4 record with a 2.53 goals-against average and a .904 save percentage in 10 playoff games. Comparatively, last year, he had a 14-9 record with a 2.45 GAA in 23 games. After struggling early this season, he regained his net in Game 3 of the Western Conference Second Round against the Vegas Golden Knights, delivering vital performances.

<p“Oilers general manager Stan Bowman praised Skinner, noting how pivotal he has been in helping the team reach the finals again. “He started in L.A. and we weren’t very good in the first couple of games, but he was able to shrug that off,” Bowman said.

Skinner’s journey this season has been anything but straightforward. Following a rocky start against the Los Angeles Kings, he was briefly replaced, but returned to form after regaining his position. He was instrumental throughout the playoffs, recording three shutouts and showcasing remarkable resilience.

Skinner’s calm demeanor has also made him a favorite in the locker room. “He’s pretty easy-going, which is crucial for a goalie,” Bowman added, emphasizing the mental toughness required in such a tense position.

Sharing his experience of coping with last year’s loss, Skinner credited his wife with helping him process his emotions. “It took me a little while. I stuffed it down, but she really helped me in that moment,” he said, highlighting the importance of support during tough times.

As the Oilers look for their first Stanley Cup since 1990, Skinner reflects on the value of perseverance, stating, “You get knocked down; you just keep on getting right back up.” This determination fuels the team’s mentality as they aim to rewrite their narrative in this championship series.