Do the Edmonton Oilers need a new No. 1 goaltender ahead of NHL trade deadline? – The Athletic

As the NHL trade deadline looms, the Edmonton Oilers find themselves in a position of uncertainty regarding one of the most important positions on the ice: goaltending. While the team has undoubtedly benefitted from the offensive prowess of stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, questions remain about whether they can contend for a Stanley Cup without an elite No. 1 goaltender. After all, in the fast-paced world of the NHL, a strong goaltender is essential for any team aspiring to win it all. So, do the Oilers need a new No. 1 goalie ahead of the trade deadline to bolster their championship aspirations?

In this article, we will break down the goaltending situation in Edmonton, analyze the performance of their current netminders, explore possible trade options, and ultimately evaluate whether acquiring a new No. 1 goaltender is essential for the Oilers’ pursuit of the ultimate prize—the Stanley Cup.

The Current Goaltending Situation in Edmonton

At the moment, the Oilers’ goaltending duties are being split between Stuart Skinner and Jack Campbell. Both have seen significant playing time this season, and both have had their moments of brilliance, but neither has managed to fully take control of the starting role.

Stuart Skinner

Stuart Skinner, a homegrown talent, has shown flashes of brilliance since becoming the Oilers’ primary goaltender. Skinner, who made his NHL debut in 2020, has shown remarkable growth in his relatively short time in the league. He has demonstrated a solid understanding of the game, great lateral movement, and composure under pressure. His athleticism and ability to stop pucks in high-danger areas have earned him praise from his coaches and teammates alike.

As of this season, Skinner has posted respectable numbers in terms of save percentage and goals-against average. However, he has also shown inconsistencies that have prevented him from becoming a true No. 1 goaltender. At times, Skinner has been unable to maintain a high level of play over an extended period, leading to moments of instability in the crease. For a team with championship aspirations like the Oilers, this inconsistency could be a potential roadblock to success.

Jack Campbell

Jack Campbell, on the other hand, entered Edmonton with high expectations after signing a big contract in the offseason. The Oilers were hoping Campbell, who had shown promise with the Toronto Maple Leafs, would solidify their goaltending position and help them push toward the playoffs and beyond. While Campbell has had some stellar performances, his overall numbers have been less than ideal.

Campbell has struggled with his consistency, and his confidence has at times appeared shaky. His save percentage has been lower than expected, and some of his performances have been characterized by soft goals, which have raised questions about his ability to carry the load in high-pressure situations. Given the Oilers’ need for a reliable No. 1 goaltender, Campbell’s inability to consistently perform at a high level has left fans and analysts wondering whether he’s the answer in the crease for the long-term future of the team.

The Case for Acquiring a New No. 1 Goaltender

Given the performances of Skinner and Campbell this season, the Oilers have to consider whether they need to make a move ahead of the trade deadline to solidify their goaltending. The question of whether the Oilers need a new No. 1 goalie becomes even more pressing when we look at some key factors that could impact their success in the postseason.

1. Championship Contention

The Oilers are undeniably one of the most explosive offensive teams in the NHL, led by two of the best players in the world in McDavid and Draisaitl. Their ability to score goals in bunches has made them a serious threat in the Western Conference. However, the postseason is a different animal altogether. The game tightens up, and the need for reliable goaltending becomes paramount. In the Stanley Cup playoffs, teams that lack consistent goaltending often find themselves struggling to match the defensive intensity required to make a deep run.

For the Oilers to achieve their championship aspirations, they need to have confidence that their goaltender can steal them games in the postseason. Right now, it’s hard to say whether Skinner or Campbell can provide that kind of performance when the stakes are highest. This uncertainty creates a significant hurdle for the team as they look ahead to the playoff race.

2. The Playoff Push

As the Oilers head into the second half of the season, the pressure is mounting. Edmonton’s position in the standings is strong, but a lack of consistency in goal could quickly derail their postseason hopes. It’s critical for the Oilers to identify whether their current tandem is capable of keeping them in the hunt for a top playoff spot, especially considering the high level of competition within the Western Conference.

Acquiring a top-tier goaltender could provide stability in the crease, ultimately providing the team with a greater chance to succeed in the playoffs. With both Skinner and Campbell showing vulnerabilities, it’s worth exploring whether there’s an upgrade available in the trade market to push the Oilers to the next level.

3. Experience and Stability in Goal

When you look at the Stanley Cup contenders, almost all of them have a goaltender with experience in high-stakes playoff scenarios. Teams like the Colorado Avalanche and Tampa Bay Lightning have had success in recent years largely due to the consistency and reliability of their goaltenders. A goaltender who can consistently perform under pressure and shut down opposing offenses is vital for any team hoping to compete for the Cup.

As much as both Skinner and Campbell have the potential to be solid goaltenders, neither has proven themselves capable of consistently being the kind of game-changer that’s often required to win the Cup. Acquiring a veteran goalie with the experience and mental fortitude necessary to step up in critical situations could give the Oilers the stability they need in goal.

Potential Trade Targets for the Oilers

The trade deadline presents the Oilers with an opportunity to address their goaltending concerns. The good news is that there are a number of potential goaltenders available who could make a difference for the team.

1. John Gibson (Anaheim Ducks)

One potential target for the Oilers is John Gibson, the long-time starting goaltender for the Anaheim Ducks. Gibson has been one of the NHL’s most consistent netminders over the years and has posted impressive numbers despite playing on a rebuilding team in Anaheim. He has experience as a No. 1 goalie in the league and is widely regarded as a reliable presence in net. Gibson’s ability to steal games and his experience in big moments could provide the Oilers with the stability they need to make a deep playoff run.

The challenge, however, would be the Ducks’ asking price. Gibson carries a significant contract, which could be a stumbling block for the Oilers, but if they can make the financials work, he could be an ideal addition.

2. Connor Hellebuyck (Winnipeg Jets)

Another potential trade target is Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets. Hellebuyck has long been one of the most underrated goaltenders in the NHL and has established himself as one of the league’s premier netminders. With the Jets having a solid goaltender already in David Rittich, the team may be open to trading Hellebuyck, especially if they’re not in the thick of the playoff race.

Hellebuyck has the experience, poise, and skill to make an immediate impact on a contender like the Oilers. His elite-level play in net, combined with his ability to stand tall in big games, could be exactly what Edmonton needs to take the next step toward a championship.

3. Semyon Varlamov (New York Islanders)

Semyon Varlamov is another veteran goaltender who could fit the Oilers’ needs. Varlamov has been a reliable presence for the New York Islanders and has experience in the playoffs, something the Oilers could greatly benefit from. Varlamov has shown that he can be effective in a backup role or as a starter, and he might be available at a reasonable price, especially with the Islanders having several goaltending options.

Varlamov could provide stability for the Oilers while allowing Skinner to continue developing without being rushed into a starting role. His experience and ability to handle pressure could make him a great asset for a playoff push.

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