Goaltending has been a persistent issue for the Edmonton Oilers over the past few seasons, but during the 2025-26 campaign, the problem has become impossible to ignore. With both Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard under scrutiny for inconsistent play, and the Edmonton Oilers sitting fourth in the Pacific Division at 8-7-4, the pressure is mounting from a frustrated fan base.
The Oilers are trying to recover from a 5-4 loss to the Blue Jackets on Thursday, a defeat that came just a week after a crushing 9-1 blowout by the Avalanche. As poor results pile up, fans are demanding changes between the pipes.
Why Are Calvin Pickard’s Stats Making Oilers Fans Shake Their Heads?
Pickard’s recent numbers have only added fuel to the fire. His save percentages in his last six games, which were .800, .762, .864, .852, .815, and .818, are all well below the NHL standard, where a respectable goalie typically stays above the .900 mark. Overall this season, Pickard holds a dismal .830 save percentage with a 4.17 goals-against average.
Unfortunately for Edmonton, Skinner hasn’t been much better, posting an .889 save percentage and a 2.75 goals-against average. Although he has performed better in the playoffs and helped backstop the Oilers to back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals appearances, his regular-season numbers remain below the league average.
Following the recent struggles, fans took to social media to voice their frustrations. One fan listed Pickard’s recent save percentages and wrote, “AM I TAKING CRAZY PILLS? GET A F**KING GOALIE.”
However, not everyone placed the blame squarely on the goaltenders. Another fan argued that the issue extends to the team’s defensive play, writing, “Oilers don’t have a playoff-capable defense. It’s not just goal tending. It’s the Nurse-type defense.”
That narrative was quickly challenged by others who believe the goaltending is the primary problem. A different user pushed back, pointing out that other teams with weaker defensive corps still get better performance from their goalies. “Not to mention the last two years Oilers had some of the best defensive numbers in the chell, yet their goalie stats were still dreadful. The excuses need to stop.”
The conversation has led some to call for drastic measures. One fan suggested promoting a goaltender from the AHL’s Bakersfield Condors, regardless of their experience. “At least try something new. Nothing to lose,” the user commented.
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Even fans who like the players are admitting a change might be needed. One fan, while expressing support for Pickard, conceded that the veteran’s performance has not been strong enough to secure his spot in the NHL. “As much as I love Pickard I think he’s gonna be sent down very soon. He’s not on his game this year at all.”
Another part of the fan debate has focused on the financial side of the roster construction. One user highlighted the pay gap between the goaltender and the defensemen. “Well, if you only pay the guy a 1 million/ year. That isn’t an insensitive, when you pay bouchard and nurse 20 million combined.. who can’t play defense.. consistently. That isn’t an excuse, but, in pickard’s eyes. It’s why the fuck am I doing this type of money. Hell Savoie, a rookie, makes almost the same amount.”
The Oilers will now aim to regroup as they hit the road to face the Carolina Hurricanes on Saturday.