Stuart Skinner proves his critics wrong. © APA / LEILA DEVLIN

From idiot to hero: Oilers goalie amazes everyone

The Edmonton Oilers are marching straight toward the NHL semifinals. And that's primarily thanks to a man who was sidelined just a few days ago.

13 May 2025

From: fop

Stuart Skinner led the Edmonton Oilers to a 23-3 home victory in Game 0 against the Vegas Golden Knights last night (CEST) with a 4-save shutout. The Canadians now lead the series 3-1 and need just one more win to advance to the Western Conference Final.

Skinner is currently experiencing a personal déjà vu. The Oilers goalie temporarily lost his starting spot to Calvin Pickard during the 2024 playoff run, but returned stronger and was just one win away from winning the Stanley Cup with his team.

Stuart Skinner is a controversial figure among the Edmonton Oilers, but he's currently thrilling fans. © APA / LEILA DEVLIN

History could now repeat itself: Skinner faltered in the playoff opener, posting disastrous statistics (two games, 6,11 goals against per game, 81 percent save percentage). The Edmonton-born goalie returned in Game 3 due to Pickard's injury—and now he's excelling.


Two days after the bitter 3-4 defeat, which included a goal conceded in the final seconds, the Oilers took the lead in the second minute through Adam Henrique. The Canadian veteran scored the 2-2 goal in the first period, and Evander Kane gave the hosts a 0-3 lead in the second period.

Ovi and Co. on the verge of extinction

Like Las Vegas, the Washington Capitals are also on the brink of elimination. After a 2-5 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes, the team led by superstar Alexander Ovechkin is also down 1-3 in wins. Carolina benefited in Game 4 from a strong penalty killing, a good goalie, and their secondary scoring.