The Edmonton Oilers entered the 2025-26 season with high expectations, but inconsistent goaltending has quickly emerged as a key concern. Despite some good games, the team’s netminders have yet to provide the stability needed to compete consistently in the Pacific Division.
With playoff hopes on the line, doubts over the reliability of their goalie tandem continue to grow. Analysts are keeping a close eye, recognizing that solid performance in net could be the difference between a deep playoff run and falling short this season.
Oilers’ Goalies Struggle as NHL Tandem Rankings Expose Weakness
Edmonton’s goaltending struggles were starkly highlighted in a recent ranking by Jesse Granger of The Athletic, who evaluated all 32 NHL goalie tandems. The Oilers were placed 31st, ahead of only the St. Louis Blues, highlighting just how far their netminders fall short of league standards.
Stuart Skinner remains the primary starter, capable of strong individual performances, yet inconsistent play continues to limit his impact. Skinner has shown moments of brilliance, such as a recent 26-save shutout against Seattle, but early goals in games often put Edmonton in a deficit that is difficult to overcome.
As Granger noted, “When Skinner is on, he’s a strong starting goalie. He uses his size well to take away shooting options and plays with good structure when he’s reading plays well. He just hasn’t been at his best nearly as consistently as Edmonton needs.”
Backing him up, Calvin Pickard has struggled in nine appearances. His performance has been a weak link in the tandem, adding pressure to Skinner and contributing to the Oilers’ last-place ranking in team save percentage. Granger’s analysis further highlighted Pickard’s challenges, noting a -3.69 goals saved above expected, which contributes to a career total that ranks near the bottom among NHL goalies since 2014.
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Combined, the Oilers’ duo has a team save percentage well below the league average, illustrating why goaltending remains a major concern. With the team currently outside a playoff spot, the need for consistency and support in net has never been more pressing. Edmonton’s front office faces a critical decision: either shore up the backup position or hope Skinner can sustain a high level of play to keep the Oilers competitive.
Granger’s ranking exposes the fragile state of the Oilers’ defensive backbone. While the talent is evident in Skinner’s abilities, the tandem’s overall performance leaves much to be desired. For a team with championship aspirations, resolving this goaltending dilemma may be essential if they hope to climb the Pacific Division standings and contend deep into the playoffs.
