It takes a lot of grit to win in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, and the Edmonton Oilers have shown they have a lot of it. After a tough matchup against the Golden Knights, the Oilers came out on top with grit, discipline, and the help of unlikely champions.
One person, in particular, is being talked about more than anyone else after the series.
With the Oilers moving onwards and upwards, the attention is focused on a player who endured a lot of criticism not long before. From being unsure to stepping up, Stuart Skinner’s fantastic change has encouraged his teammates and secured the captain’s full support.
Connor McDavid Defends Stuart Skinner After Back-to-Back Shutouts
Reaching the NHL playoff stage generally requires the team to dig in, and that’s exactly what Edmonton did. In beating the Vegas Golden Knights 4-1, the Oilers clearly showed their commitment, ability, and durability.
Even so, Skinner stood out in the most important moments by being the one to lead his team. Connor McDavid ensured the entire league saw just how good his team can be.
After being benched in the previous round, Skinner’s return raised eyebrows. Critics questioned whether he had what it took to carry the Oilers deep into the playoffs.
Now, after back-to-back shutouts, including a commanding performance that closed out the series, those doubts have quieted. For McDavid, Skinner’s redemption arc was personal. “Hopefully, it shuts a lot of people up that were talking about him,” McDavid said (via the Edmonton Journal). “We’ve always had belief in him.”
Back-to-back shutouts for Stuart Skinner 🙌 pic.twitter.com/TZewNcVxoe
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet)
There is evidence to support the captain’s beliefs. Over the last 127 minutes of the series, Skinner did not let any goals in and had a .926 save percentage and a 1.97 goals-against average. Pretty good numbers for a man who was in the eye of the storm.
McDavid praised how well the team was able to play defense, giving credit to Henry and Hyman, but he spoke the strongest words about Skinner. “We’ve always had belief in him. He comes in and pitches two shutouts. You can’t say enough good things,” he added.
During a playoff where things got tense and the comments got stronger, Skinner remained calm and still and enforced a shutout. Having his captain speak highly about him makes it clear that the team will stick together in the following stages.