Despite talking about how fit he is to be the starter this coming season, Edmonton Oilers -target defender Stuart Skinner is not hiding for expectations on the way to the 2025-26 campaign. Speech on Thursday To the media after informal skates, the 25-year-old spent that he set elevated goals, including a daring goals that suggest more than a few fans.
“My goals this year, I set the bar high,” said Skinner. “I want to represent Canada at the Olympic Games. I want to go back to the Stanley Cup and finish the job.”
Skinner, who has now registered for several full seasons as the starter of Edmonton, believes that experience has prepared him to take another step forward. “Last year there was another 82 games and four rounds, but we just want to finish the track,” he added. “For me it is great to have a few NHL seasons under my belt. I just want to slow the game a little … I know how to win games, how to bounce back after heavy situations.”
This summer, Skinner focused on improving his strength and consistency, especially in his core and lower body. “Sometimes you can become a little floppy there, especially if you get tired,” he said. “If I can stay strong, it helps me to stay fresh for 60 minutes.”
Skinner will also work with a new goalkeeper coach for the first time in his career. Pete Aubry came to the Oilers Staff this season and the two have already spent time assessing tape and discussing adjustments. “It was a good start,” said Skinner. “The goal is still to just stand in the way of Pucks.”
Fan response online was mixed, but many fans were quite sarcastic, even negative, in their comments.
Some praised the trust of Skinner and say that he should set elevated goals for himself and try to reach them. Others insisted on more modest expectations: “Just give us a .900 savings percentage and stop the softies,” wrote a fan. Another added: “There is nothing wrong with wanting the Olympic Games and the cup – go get them now.”
Some fans were pretty rude, which suggested that he had to concentrate on stopping the puck first or being an average goalkeeper before trying to earn a place on a team that might not look in his direction. One person wrote: “I have a better chance to learn to fly than Skinner when making team Canada.”
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