The Edmonton Oilers bounced back in a big way with a 5–4 overtime win against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Monday, just after getting blown out 9–1 by the Colorado Avalanche on Saturday. The win brought them to a 7-6-4 record as they still sit third-last in the Pacific Division.
Goaltending remains a significant concern in Edmonton, with Stuart Skinner once again under scrutiny. Despite backstopping the team to consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearances, many fans have lost faith in him and are calling for a shake-up. Nashville’s $61.92 million goaltender emerged as the top name on their wish list.
Who Is the $61.92 Million Goalie Fans Think Is the Best Fit for the Oilers?
NHL insider Frank Seravalli discussed the Oilers’ goaltending situation on B/R Insider Notebook. He noted that Juuse Saros, currently in the first year of his eight-year, $61.92 million contract with the Predators, has been floated as a possible trade target.
However, Seravalli dismissed the idea, citing three reasons: Saros’ long-term deal runs until he’s 38, his numbers have dipped for two straight seasons, and Edmonton doesn’t have the cap flexibility to take on another expensive goalie.
But fans see things differently. Some believe Saros could be the missing piece to stabilize the crease. One fan predicted the Predators would eventually trade Saros to the Oilers for cheap, saying: “The Preds are going to trade Saros to an Edmonton for scraps. And then all of us who said the Preds should’ve traded Saros when his value peaked will be vindicated.”
Another fan thought the fit would be perfect, even suggesting a potential package that includes young center Matthew Savoie. “Edmonton with Saros is scary. What would it cost? Matthew Savoie + ?” asking to trade center Savoie and another for Saros.”
Others, though, strongly disagreed. A passionate Nashville supporter jokingly threatened to “raise hellfire” if the Oilers came for their goalie. At the same time, another sided with insider Frank Seravalli, calling him a “smart man” for dismissing the trade idea.
Several Oilers fans vented frustration toward Stuart Skinner’s inconsistency, pointing to his playoff struggles and questioning Seravalli’s defense of the goalie. “Frank do you know how many times Skinner got pulled in the playoffs last year? Did you see how awful he was in the Finals? He has gotten worse every year. He’s even worse than last year.”
Meanwhile, one fan took a more cynical stance, claiming Edmonton is “a graveyard for goaltenders”, suggesting that no matter who’s in net, the team’s defensive issues would remain.
Capping it off, insider David Pagnotta reminded everyone of the practical issue: even if the Oilers wanted to make a change, their limited salary cap space makes adding a high-end goalie like Saros nearly impossible at the moment.
