Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid has addressed the growing concerns about the team’s goaltending, and he doesn’t agree with the fans’ call for it to be a glaring weakness.
The comment counters online chatter, which has been especially pointed following Stuart Skinner’s early mistake against Calgary. That misplay helped turn a 3-0 Oilers lead into a 4-3 shootout loss. Still, McDavid isn’t dwelling on it, pointing instead to the group’s overall structure and mindset.
Is Connor McDavid Right to Defend the Oilers’ Goaltending?
Speaking to reporters, McDavid made it clear that he sees progress between the pipes and across the defensive lineup. “Everyone’s bought in,” he said. “We’re checking hard and getting solid goaltending. So far, so good.”
He noted the team is still adjusting to a new defensive system, one that’s already showing promise. “A little bit of a new look, moving away from our old system and into a new system. And there’s been a little bit of a feeling out process. But I feel like it’s gone really well,” he said. “Everybody’s paying attention, trying to learn it as fast as they can. And it’s only going to get better with time as we understand it better. It’s been off to a good start.”
In their last two games, the Oilers have allowed just one goal, a stat that’s done plenty to silence doubters, at least for now.
McDavid sees that as a result of both system tweaks and better execution. A revamped penalty kill and stronger team defense have made a clear difference. According to him, everyone’s buying into the changes.
One key reason for that recent success is Stuart Skinner, who bounced back in a big way. He followed up his costly error with a 30-save shutout at Madison Square Garden, helping Edmonton take down the Rangers 2-0.
Oilers Goaltending Under the Microscope
Even with McDavid backing the netminders, pressure continues to build behind the scenes. TSN’s Ryan Rishaug recently reported that Skinner’s leash may not be long. “He’s on the clock,” Rishaug said, adding that if Skinner doesn’t prove he can handle the job, Edmonton won’t hesitate to make a change.
Skinner’s contract is set to expire, and the team recently traded for Connor Ingram, another sign that general manager Stan Bowman is keeping his options open. Backup Calvin Pickard has also looked solid in limited appearances, only adding to the conversation.
The Oilers have a tough stretch of games coming up, and the situation in net will remain under the spotlight. Still, with Connor McDavid staying calm and composed, the team may have exactly the presence it needs to weather the pressure.
